Sixteen members of the OUWB Class of 2017 were inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (AΩA) at a ceremony held at Meadow Brook Hall. The students are listed and pictured to the right.

The society, which was founded in 1902, recognizes and advocates for excellence in scholarship, honorable conduct and dedication to serving others.

“Being an AΩA member validates the hard work I've put into my academic career so far,” says Paras Vakharia. “I pride myself on my proactivity, not only in the academic setting, but also in my research endeavors and community service. Thus, being recognized for this as a medical student is very rewarding for me and for my family as well.”

Vakharia said that keynote speaker Jeffrey Fischgrund, M.D. chairman, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beaumont Health, inspired him to uphold the responsibility of being an AΩA member practicing high standards and to always do the right thing.

Fischgrund reflected on his medical school years, encouraging students to pursue every professional opportunity available. He reminded them not to take for granted the importance of the support their families provide them as they strive to be medical professionals.

“I always made it home to have dinner with my family,” said Fischgrund, who is also OUWB Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery.

With the Class of 2017 induction, there are 36 total AΩA members with a medical education from OUWB.