Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine student Taran Silva has been named the 2019 National Student DO of the Year by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, or AACOM.
Silva, a member of the Class of 2019, earned his bachelor’s degree from MSU in physiology. In medical school, he was president of the Student Government Association, focusing on policies and programs that place value on inclusion and diversity within the osteopathic medical community.
He represented the college on AACOM’s Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents and was a liaison to the Michigan Osteopathic Association board of trustees. Silva also currently serves as the national student representative on AACOM’s Task Force on Professionalism and Ethics. He has traveled to Guatemala four times, Peru twice, and Cuba twice for international medical electives.
Silva is also a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.
The national award is presented each year to one osteopathic medical student who demonstrates superior leadership capabilities, robust research experience and a strong commitment to community service.