An Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine student has been named recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Medical Student in Michigan Award from the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians.
M4 Jordan Kamen was presented the award at the organization’s annual conference held July 18 on Mackinac Island.
The Outstanding Medical Student in Michigan Award is presented annually by MAFP to a student member who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, service, and a clear commitment to pursuing a career as a family physician.
Kamen said she was “happily surprised” to be the one student selected among all med students in Michigan.
“It is an incredible honor to receive this award,” said Kamen. “I’m grateful to the mentors, classmates, and physicians who have encouraged me throughout medical school and helped shape my path toward family medicine.”
“I hope to carry those lessons forward as I continue my training and prepare for a career centered on service, connection, and community.”
Kamen was born and raised in Birmingham, Michigan. She attended International Academy in Bloomfield Hills before University of Michigan, where she double majored in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology and biomedical engineering. She also earned a master’s degree in biomedical engineering.
Kamen developed a passion for patient care while volunteering in a clinical setting and working as a medical assistant.
“When I started working in the hospital and compared it to my experiences of doing research, I realized how much I enjoy the human connection and seeing the results of what you’re able to do for someone,” she said.
She was initially interested in OUWB because of its proximity to home and its affiliation with Corewell Health.
Her Second Look experience sealed the deal.
“I was able to meet some of the (OUWB) students and they talked about the school’s amazing culture, how supported they are, how friendly their classmates are, and how it’s not competitive or cut throat … everybody helps each other,” she said.
Kamen has been involved in numerous student organizations at OUWB. She served as president of Jewish Medical Student Association (JEMSA) and the Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG), served on the board of the OUWB chapter of the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA), and volunteered with Street Medicine Oakland and the Student-Run Free Clinics held at Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic.
Kamen also has been deeply engaged in tutoring.
As she heads into her fourth year of medical school, Kamen is planning to apply to a family medicine residency with a goal of pursuing a sports medicine fellowship.
“Jordan represents everything we hope for in the next generation of family physicians,” said Karlene Ketola, CEO, MAFP. “She has distinguished herself through her leadership, her commitment to service, and her clear passion for family medicine.”
“Her dedication and example have already made a strong impression on those around her.”
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To request an interview, visit the OUWB Communications & Marketing webpage.
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