MOA Convention

May 19, 2006

By Craig Reed and Cheri Rugh

Last week, D.O.s from all across Michigan attended the MOA Convention in Dearborn, MI. Here are a few of the highlights from the event:

The judges for the Scientific Research Exhibit Research Competition looked over 36 entries and awarded the Andrew Taylor Still Achievement Award (ANDY Award). In addition to a first, second, third place, the Andrew Taylor Still Achievement Award may be presented to an outstanding exhibit.  The ANDY Award, which includes an exquisitely carved crystal piece and a $250 cash prize, is not awarded every year.  Only those who best reflect the principles of osteopathic medicine with their research exhibit will receive the award.  The last time the award was given was in 1999.  Those receiving the award were Heather Lake, D.O., Rob Wall, D.O., Loai Marouf, D.O., and Chris Buatti, D.O.

MSUCOM graduate, Loai Marouf, D.O., from the Class of 2004, won the award with "International Medicine: Providiing Needed Medical Care While Advancing Osteopathic Medical Education" which was based on the Guatemala medical research project.

Three new D.O.s were elected as new MOA Board Members, Michael, Wiess, D.O., Edward Canfield, D.O., Kurt Anderson, D.O.  In addition, a new president-elect was elected by a anonymous ballot vote.  The winner was Susan Sevensma, D.O., of Grand Rapids.  When Sevensma takes over as President in 2007, she will be only the fourth female to serve as President of the MOA ever.