Building future leaders in osteopathic family medicine
By Deb Dupnik, CAE, CCSM-A
June 2026
The American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians is committed to developing the next generation of leaders in osteopathic family medicine, and we invite you to help identify residents who are passionate about advocacy, education and the future of our profession through participation in the AOBFP Resident Ambassador Program.
The Resident Ambassador Program provides residents with an opportunity to engage directly with the AOBFP, learn more about osteopathic board certification and serve as advocates for certification and osteopathic family medicine within their training programs and professional communities. Resident Ambassadors gain valuable leadership experience, networking opportunities and insight into the certification process while helping strengthen the voice of emerging physicians in our profession.
We encourage program directors to nominate residents who demonstrate professionalism, enthusiasm for osteopathic family medicine, leadership potential and a commitment to advancing osteopathic principles and practice (OPP). This program offers residents an excellent opportunity to become involved early in organized medicine and begin building meaningful professional relationships.
In addition to the Resident Ambassador Program, the AOBFP also encourages physicians to participate in our Item Writing Mentor Program. This program provides hands-on training and mentorship in the development of high-quality examination items used in the certification process. Item writing is one of the most important ways physicians can contribute to maintaining the integrity and excellence of osteopathic board certification.
Participation in item writing often becomes the first step in a rewarding journey of volunteer service with the AOBFP. Many physicians who begin as item writers go on to serve on committees, participate as examiners, contribute to exam development and ultimately pursue leadership and Board service opportunities. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to shape the future of osteopathic family medicine while collaborating with dedicated colleagues from across the country.
We strongly encourage interested physicians and residents to become involved and explore the many ways they can contribute to the mission of AOBFP. Your participation helps ensure the continued strength, quality and future of osteopathic board certification.
Thank you for your support in osteopathic family medicine and for helping cultivate future leaders in our profession.
Sincerely,
Deb Dupnik, CAE, CCSM-A
Director, American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians