Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA)
Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA)
Founded in 1902
Our Mission
AΩA 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.
History Of AΩA
Alpha Omega Alpha (AΩA) was founded in 1902 at the University of Illinois College of Medicine as the first national medical honor society in the United States. Established to recognize excellence in scholarship and the highest ideals of the medical profession, AΩA has grown to include chapters at accredited medical schools across the country. For more than a century, the society has honored physicians and trainees who exemplify leadership, professionalism, service, and a lifelong commitment to advancing medicine.
What is Alpha Omega Alpha?
Alpha Omega Alpha (AΩA) is the national medical honor society that recognizes the highest standards of academic achievement, professionalism, leadership, and service in medicine.
Values
- Scholarship – Academic excellence and intellectual curiosity
- Leadership – Guiding peers and contributing to the medical community
- Service – Commitment to patients, community, and profession
- Humanism – Compassion, empathy, and integrity in medicine
- Professionalism – Upholding the highest ethical standards
Why AΩA Matters
- Recognizes outstanding performance in medical school
- Reflects a commitment to professionalism and service
- Is nationally recognized by residency programs and institutions
- Connects members to a lifelong network of physician leaders
"Be worthy to serve the suffering."
-William W. Root, MD - Founder, 1902
School of Medicine Selection Criteria
Yearly, the chapter may elect up to 15% of the graduating class of students, up to 25 residents/fellows, up to 10 faculty, and up to five alumni that are at least 10+ years out of medical school. Selection will be based on demonstrating the characteristics of excellent physicianship in alignment with AΩA's mission and values. An honorary membership selection of a non-medical person that has made a significant impact on the community or medical school can also be selected provided they have proven worthy to serve the suffering.
The characteristics of excellent physicianship include trustworthiness, character, caring, knowledge, scholarship, proficiency in the doctor-patient relationship, leadership, compassion, empathy, altruism, and servant leadership to others.