Nathaniel Szewczyk Research and Scholarly Activity Poster Competition

Congratulations to the 2026 Winners!

Sharing research findings—through journal articles or poster presentations at regional or national meetings—is a vital part of advancing scientific knowledge and strengthening the profession.
 
Each year, the Ohio Osteopathic Association (OOA) and Ohio Osteopathic Foundation (OOF), in collaboration with the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM), host a Scientific Research Competition at the Ohio Osteopathic Symposium.
 
Launched in 2003 as a small statewide exhibition, it has evolved into a respected regional showcase, attracting entries from multiple states and highlighting innovative work from students, residents, and physicians across the osteopathic community.

In 2026, the award was renamed the Nathaniel Szewczyk Student Research Excellence Awards, to honor the life and legacy of the late Nathaniel “Nate” Szewczyk, Ph.D. He was a professor at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and principal investigator at the Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI). Szewczyk passed away July 26, 2025. In addition to his roles at the Heritage College and OMNI, he was also the former Osteopathic Heritage Foundation Ralph S. Licklider, D.O., Endowed Professor in Molecular Medicine. Known not only for his groundbreaking research but also for his warmth and generosity, Szewczyk was a deeply respected colleague and mentor. Learn more here.
 
The competition is made possible through the support of the Heritage College Office of Research and Grants in partnership with the Ohio Osteopathic Association, and with prize support from the Heritage College Society of Alumni and Friends and the Columbus Osteopathic Association.

2026 Poster Winners

Faisal Reza, OMS-I (HCOM) Finite Element Modeling Analysis of Traumatic Brain Injury Induced by
Frontal and Crown Impact
Andrew Devine, OMS-III (HCOM) Silent URIs & Perioperative Risk in Pediatric Anesthesia: Preliminary Results
Thomas Krauss, DO/PHD Student (HCOM) APOJ Friend, Foe, or Observer of Skeletal Muscle