Complete Story
04/16/2026
The Future of Medicine in Ohio Starts Here
Each year, the OSMA Foundation Reception brings together physicians, partners, and supporters from across Ohio to reflect on what this support makes possible and to introduce those stepping into it.
At this year’s reception, we were proud to introduce the 2026 Summer Scholars and the inaugural recipients of the Kumar Emerging Physician Leaders grant. Together, they represent the next generation of physicians whose training, leadership, and commitment to care will shape communities across Ohio.
WHY THIS MATTERS
OSMA Foundation supports physicians from medical school through leadership and practice, advancing education, strengthening leadership, and supporting physician well-being.
This year’s scholars and physician leaders reflect that progress in action.
2026 SUMMER SCHOLARS
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Cynthia Bukirwa Evaluating robotic tele-ultrasound with AI-driven decision support to improve diagnostic imaging and expand access to care for pediatric patients in underserved communities. |
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Ajah Hale Evaluating HPV self-collection through a mobile clinic with IMPACT 513 to improve access to cervical cancer screening and support earlier detection in communities facing barriers to care. |
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Hyun Su Kim Conducting cardiovascular research on atrial fibrillation at Cleveland Clinic to better understand disease progression and improve patient outcomes through imaging and risk factor analysis. |
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Helena Li Leading a diabetes clinic initiative at Noor Community Clinic to expand access to culturally responsive care and improve long-term health outcomes for underserved patient populations. |
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Sydney Snyder Studying postnatal family health through SOAR-net at Wright State and Dayton Children’s Hospital to identify gaps in care and improve outcomes for children and families. |
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Eiman Stiffler Researching surgical outcomes in cranial reconstruction at University Hospitals to improve healing, recovery, and quality of life for patients with complex head and neck conditions. |
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Melina Varlamos Conducting qualitative research on nonoperative rectal cancer management at University Hospitals to better understand patient experiences and improve quality-of-life outcomes.
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The Summer Scholars Program provides medical students with $2,500 stipends to pursue hands-on clinical, research, and community health experiences. These opportunities are often unpaid but critical to their training.
Since 2021, the program has supported 36 medical students across Ohio’s seven medical schools, expanding access to meaningful experiences that shape future physicians and improve community health.
KUMAR EMERGING PHYSICIAN LEADERS
Through the Kumar Emerging Physician Leaders Fund, early-career physicians are supported in advancing leadership and advocacy efforts that strengthen the future of medicine in Ohio.
The 2026 recipients will pursue opportunities that expand their impact at both the state and national level, bringing physician voice into conversations shaping healthcare.
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Lauren Ashley Forbes, MD, MPH Expanding her engagement in state and national policy through participation in the AMA State Advocacy Summit, strengthening her ability to influence issues impacting maternal and patient care. |
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Engy Habashy, MD Pursuing legal training at Case Western Reserve University to deepen her expertise in health policy and regulatory systems, positioning her to lead at the intersection of medicine and law. |
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Jonathan Markle, MD Building national advocacy experience through the ASH Advocacy Leadership Institute, expanding his role in physician-led policy efforts. |
FOUNDATION IMPACT
These programs reflect the Foundation’s broader commitment to supporting physicians across their careers.
From students gaining hands-on experience, to physicians stepping into leadership and advocacy roles, to ongoing support for physician well-being, this work continues to grow through the support of the OSMA community.
LOOKING AHEAD
With the OSMA Alliance’s leadership gift launching a permanent Summer Scholars endowment, the Foundation is building long-term support to ensure these opportunities remain accessible for future generations of Ohio medical students.
Continued support will allow these programs to expand, reaching more students, supporting more physician leaders, and strengthening care across communities in Ohio.
Be part of this effort: