VCOM - Carolinas 2017 Yearbook

SAAO Student American Academy of Osteopathy

Diego Herrera, President; Sona Sadselia, Vice President; Alex Bos, Treasurer; LeShea Quade, Secretary

T he Student American Academy of Osteopathy (SAAO) spearheads student exposure and interest in the field of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM). Our goals align with the National AAO organization: to acquire a better understanding of osteopathic principles, theories and practices, by helping students attain maximum proficiency in osteopathic structural diagnosis and treatment, fostering a clear concept of the clinical applications of osteopathy in health and disease; and to improve public awareness of osteopathic medicine so the community may better take

advantage of the benefits provided by the complete health care concept of osteopathic medicine. This year, SAAO kept busy with OMM reviews, mock practicals, guest speakers and workshops for students. The executive board worked to ensure members of SAAO were prepared for OMM exams, while also gaining insight from local physicians. SAAO also held review sessions for students to practice OMM techniques, as well as a “Crunch and Munch” event during each block, where students offered OMM for each other under faculty supervision.

SAAO workshops this year included pediatric OMM, cranial osteopathy and “OMM is Medicine,” all hosted by VCOM faculty. Members partnered with other student organizations at the annual ACOP Pediatric Wellness Fair and SOIMA Adult Health Fair. In March, SAAO members attended the 2017 AAO Convocation in Colorado Springs, Colorado. One of the most exciting events this year was SAAO’s inaugural VCOM Convocation. This day-long event reflected the same experience gained by students at the Annual

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