Antonio Almeda-Lopez (DO '26) is approaching the final stretch of medical school with a distinction that reflects both his journey and his impact. Named PCOM's 2026 Student Doctor of the Year, Almeda-Lopez describes the recognition as a meaningful acknowledgment from those who have witnessed his growth as a student, leader and future physician.
Originally from New York City, he completed his undergraduate studies at Temple University, where he majored in kinesiology and had thoughts to pursue a career in physical therapy. Over time, he realized he wanted a broader role in patient care, which led him to explore osteopathic medicine. Upon enrolling at Temple, a senior member of Temple's gymnastics team was matriculating into PCOM, offering both guidance and inspiration.
After graduating from Temple, Almeda-Lopez took gap years before enrolling in PCOM's Biomedical Sciences program, where he concentrated in forensic biology and medical education. There, his interests in anatomy and teaching took shape. Meanwhile, learning about the Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) Scholars Program during graduate school gave him a clear goal.
“I knew I liked anatomy, and I knew I liked teaching,” he said. “I knew that if I got into medical school, I wanted to pursue that path.”
Accepted into the OMM Scholars Program during his second year of medical school, Almeda-Lopez found a framework that aligned with both his intellectual interests and his values. Through the program, osteopathic principles moved from theory into practice, reinforcing a philosophy centered on presence, listening and whole-person care.
“In my eyes, it starts from being present when you first see a patient, and making them feel heard by the end of the encounter,” he said.
That emphasis was something Almeda-Lopez noticed early in his relationship with PCOM. Visiting campus as a prospective student, he was struck by the openness and integrity of the community—from faculty to current students—and the supportive culture that extended throughout his preclinical years.
“The amount of support PCOM gives makes you want to do the same,” he said. “Paying it forward is something that becomes second nature.”
This mindset has shaped his approach to leadership and service. Having navigated the medical school application process with limited guidance, Almeda-Lopez sees leadership as a responsibility to mentor and guide others. Being named Student Doctor of the Year carried particular weight for Almeda-Lopez as the first soon-to-be physician in his family. Inspired by his mother, a Montessori educator, Almeda-Lopez sees education as a tool for empowerment—one that extends from the classroom to the exam room. As he looks ahead to graduation and residency, Almeda-Lopez sees this award as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with being entrusted by patients, peers and mentors alike.
“To me, being a physician means helping people navigate their health with clarity and confidence,” he said. “There are so many talented people here. To be considered someone who represents PCOM, especially knowing where I started, was incredibly endearing. I'm grateful for everyone who supported me along the way. And I hope I can continue to carry that support forward.”
Each year, the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Council across PCOM's campuses selects a Student Doctor of the Year. Sponsored by the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents, part of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the honor recognizes a student who exemplifies leadership, service, professionalism, and a commitment to osteopathic whole-person care.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For general media inquiries, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 215-871-6300 or communications@pcom.edu. Visit our media relations page to view contact information for public relations personnel.
Kristen Hopf
Communications Content Specialist
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: kristenho1@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6303
© 2026 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
