The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) has honored Campbell medical school with “Excellence in Professional Development,” part of the organization’s 2026 Program of Excellence Awards, announced July 31.
The AAFP recognized 21 Family Medicine Interest Groups (FMIGs) and one outstanding faculty adviser for their exceptional contributions, a news release says.
FMIGs are student-led organizations, supported by faculty advisers and their medical schools. Through hands-on learning experiences, volunteer service, clinical exposure and leadership opportunities, FMIGs help students explore the specialty and prepare for careers in family medicine, according to the release.
“It is an honor to see our students recognized by the AAFP for their outstanding work,” said Dr. Robert Agnello, Family Medicine chair and assistant professor of Campbell medical school.
“The FMIG embodies the core values of family medicine through leadership, service, advocacy and a commitment to caring for rural and underserved populations,” he said. “This award is a testament to the exceptional students and faculty who make our program strong.”
These interest groups were selected for the meaningful impact they have on their medical school communities through innovative efforts to inspire and recruit more students to pursue careers in family medicine, AAFP says.
“This recognition is a wonderful reflection of our mission and the importance of primary care at the Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine,” said Dean Dr. David Tolentino. “Our students have built a Family Medicine Interest Group that not only promotes the specialty but also creates meaningful opportunities for professional growth, service and mentorship.”
Tolentino said he is grateful to Agnello and Dr. Tiffany Lowe Clayton, Family Medicine vice chair, for their leadership and encouragement offered to students each day.
“Family medicine is at the heart of our mission to serve rural and underserved communities, and we are honored to see our students and faculty recognized nationally by the AAFP,” he added.
The Program of Excellence Awards honors the FMIGs for their overall contributions to family medicine and for inspiring the future family physician workforce, the AAFP release says. Winners were recognized at FUTURE, the national conference for family medicine students and residents, where medical students and residents come together to connect, learn and advance their careers. The conference was held in Kansas City, Missouri, from July 29 to Aug.1.
“FMIGs play a crucial role in developing the next generation of family physicians,” said Dr. Sarah C. Nosal, AAFP president. “So much of what family physicians do is in relationship building, and that same spirit of community is what brings more students to the specialty. Molding the future of primary care is a big role, but FMIGs show the rest of us what is possible when we commit to our communities.”
The AAFP is the largest national association of family physicians, representing 124,500 physicians and medical students. The AAFP supports every stage of a family physician’s career and provides evidence-based resources, advocacy and community to empower family medicine.