Letter from the Board President

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Conference of Family Medicine Residents and Medical Students this August, I am eager to share with you our plans to commemorate this significant milestone.

The AAFP Foundation is launching the "All in for Family Medicine" campaign, with the goal of raising $30,000 to support 50 scholarships for medical students to attend National Conference. This campaign aligns with our ongoing commitment to nurturing the future of family medicine, ensuring that the next generation of physicians has the resources they need to thrive.

Since its inception, National Conference has been a vibrant hub where medical students and family medicine residents can network, learn about the specialty, and be inspired. It's where many find their dream residency program, bridge the gap between medical school and professional practice, and develop leadership skills.

Through the Family Medicine Leads National Scholarship program, the Foundation has provided more than 250 scholarships annually to medical students and family medicine residents, allowing them to attend National Conference. This initiative helps students explore family medicine through various educational sessions, hands-on procedural workshops, leadership development opportunities, and invaluable networking with peers and experienced physicians. Since 2002, the Foundation has awarded over 4,875 scholarships, totaling more than $2.2 million in support.

Your generous contributions have made this possible. In 2023 alone, we awarded 270 scholarships to medical students, including 240 Family Medicine Leads Scholarships and 30 Emerging Leader Institute Scholars. It's through your support that we're able to continue offering these scholarships and give students the chance to experience the transformative nature of National Conference.

As we mark 50 years of this remarkable event, I invite you to join us in our "All in for Family Medicine" campaign. Your donation can help us reach our $30,000 goal, ensuring that more medical students can attend National Conference and gain insights into the specialty of family medicine. With your support, they will be able to shape their careers, develop essential skills, and contribute to the future of primary care.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the Foundation and to the specialty of family medicine. Together, let's ensure that the next 50 years are even more successful, filled with innovation, collaboration, and a continued dedication to providing high-quality care to our communities. I look forward to seeing you at National Conference and thank you in advance for your generosity and support.

Warm regards,

Tomás Owens, MD, FAAFP
President, AAFP Foundation