Alpha Omega Alpha, founded in 1902, is the national medical honor society. Its mission is dedicated to the belief that in the profession of medicine we will improve care for all by recognizing high educational achievement; honoring gifted teaching; encouraging the development of leaders in academia and the community; supporting the ideals of humanism; and promoting service to others.
The AΩA Award for Excellence in Inclusion, Diversity, & Equity in Medical Education & Patient Care recognizes medical schools demonstrating leadership in fostering an inclusive culture that transforms ideals of inclusion, diversity, and equity into successful programs. This includes efforts to support recruitment and retention from diverse backgrounds, teaching and research that expands understanding of inclusiveness, multicultural programming, community outreach, programs that enhance diversity and inclusion, mentoring related to diversity, socialization to enhance collaboration, and activities that advance cultural competence. Awards are up to $5,000 to further develop programs supporting under-represented students, with recipients recognized at the AΩA Councilors Retreat and in AΩA communications.