2025 – 2028 Strategic Plan

Mission Statement

The Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) is the nation’s largest network of osteopathic medical students. We are an American Osteopathic Association (AOA)-affiliated, student-led and student-driven organization with direct representation to the AOA.

SOMA shall:

  1. Educate and prepare osteopathic leaders and advocates.
  2. Maintain open and transparent lines of communication to our student members as we continually adapt to the evolving needs of our members and organization.
  3. Advance collaborative relationships that promote osteopathic medicine in the greater healthcare community.
  4. Utilize our direct affiliation with the American Osteopathic Association to advance the interests and viewpoints of osteopathic medical students.

Strategic Plan

Pillar 1: Membership

  • Increase SOMA leadership and membership diversity.
  • Engage in mentorship and professional development opportunities for SOMA members.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to promote SOMA membership among osteopathic medical students and work to establish a strong alumni network.

Pillar 2: Policy and Healthcare Advocacy

  • Raise SOMA’s profile and presence within the AOA.
  • Increase awareness of advocacy/community health influence on osteopathic medicine and patient care
  • Ensure the execution of the National SOMA’s policies both within the organization and with relevant stakeholders

Pillar 3: Visibility and Public Image

  • Enhance SOMA’s reputation as the nationally and internationally recognized osteopathic student voice.

Pillar 4: Organizational Growth

  • Promote future SOMA expansion through the Pre-SOMA, medical school chapter, and alumni networks.
  • Enhancing Osteopathic Principles & Practice education across SOMA membership.