Student American Academy of Osteopathy Fall 2025

The Student American Academy of Osteopathy (SAAO) is a student chapter of the American Academy of Osteopathy (AAO), dedicated to advancing the principles, practice, and teaching of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM). Our mission is to foster a deeper understanding of the osteopathic philosophy. 

At the Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine, our chapter serves as a hub for medical students interested in further developing hands-on skills in OMM, promoting excellence and collaboration. 

By strengthening manual diagnosis and treatment skills, the SAAO helps prepare future physicians to better serve the Duquesne and greater Pittsburgh regional communities. 

Additional information about the AAO/SAAO may be found on the National Homepage.

What are we fundraising for?

Established by the DUQCOM inaugural class, we remain a small group of second-year medical students. We hope to utilize donations to start up club initiatives, community events, recruiting, and/or connecting our student members with the nation-wide chapters through conference travel and research journal clubs. 

Since 1982, the AAO has hosted Annual Convocation, a national conference for Osteopathic Students, Researchers, and Physicians. Members travel from various Osteopathic Medical Schools across the country. Convocation 2026 will be our first opportunity as a new club. We hope to set an annual tradition, paving the way for future student members at DUQCOM. This 2026 conference is being held in Colorado Springs from March 18th-22nd. We hope to bring the five founding E-Board Officers, the rising E-Board of first year medical students, and any current student members interested in this opportunity. Student chapter members across the country meet to collaborate, share, network, and present research advancing the practice of Osteopathic Medicine. Our plan is to bring back even more advanced techniques, mentorship ideas, networking, and resources to share with our peers. 

Additionally, we hope to add donations to our newly established club treasury. Any funds added to our treasury would be securely managed for future club activities, student events, and community outreach. 

The SAAO enriches student life by creating a supportive community focused on mentorship, professional growth, and skill-building. Through hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and peer mentorship, we aim to enhance early palpatory diagnosis and therapeutic skills. Our goal is to build confidence in utilizing OMM in future patient care.

As second year medical students, we hope to assist our rising first year medical students. We’ve hosted events such as a mock practical exam, and plan to host more hands-on workshops. Beyond campus, our E-Board connects with the broader Osteopathic community, promoting new Duquesne visibility and recognition in these circles. 

As the inaugural class, we lacked a senior class of medical students to follow or emulate. These challenges also presented a unique opportunity to trailblaze, establish traditions, and lean on our faculty mentors. 

Through practice and shared problem-solving, we as a class supported one another in mastering osteopathic techniques and preparing for practical exams. As the second class of medical students approached their first practicals, we facilitated an after-hours mock practical session to boost confidence and facilitate skill development. 

We hope this tradition carries on through our rising sibling cohorts of medical students and intend to make annual Convocation a “passing of the torch” to the rising student chapter leadership. 

Stay Connected!

Students can get involved by attending meetings, technique workshops, and future outreach events. We welcome collaboration with other student organizations and local health initiatives, hoping to expand positive impact throughout Pittsburgh’s surrounding communities.