Welcoming OCOM’s Largest Cohort Yet: The Class of 2030

OCOM welcomed its largest incoming class yet as the Class of 2030 officially began their journey toward becoming osteopathic physicians. With 194 students joining our growing campus community, this new cohort brings together future physicians from across the country who share a passion for compassionate, whole-person care. From the first day of Welcome Week to forming new friendships and beginning their medical education, the Class of 2030 has already made its mark on OCOM. View the video to see highlights from their first days on campus.

Growing our OCOM Team

As OCOM continues to grow, so does the team behind our students and mission. This quarter, we welcomed several new faculty and staff members to the OCOM family, bringing additional expertise, experience, and enthusiasm to our campus community. Each new team member plays an important role in supporting our students, strengthening our programs, and advancing OCOM’s mission of preparing compassionate, highly skilled osteopathic physicians. Please join us in giving our newest colleagues a warm OCOM welcome!

From Left to Right (Top Row): Chloe Vanderlinden, Kristin Clark, Dr. Melinda Naliboff, Dr. Ileana Niles, Dr. Juliano Freitas, Dr. Ann Dobry, Dr. Nasser Yousef; (Second Row): Raphael Monta, Miranda Villar, Dr. Mary Jo Laniewski, Dr. Brown, Dr. Sharp, Amanda Yates; (Bottom Row): Timothy Carter, Kwame Green, Isaiah Fernandes, Emily Maldonado, Janecia Sampson , Dr. Astrid Chabert, and Kaitlyn Smith.

Serving Those Who Serve: OCOM’s Military Medical Students

This summer, several of OCOM’s military medical students took their commitment to service beyond the classroom as they participated in military training. Balancing the demands of medical education with the discipline and responsibilities of military service, these students demonstrated the dedication, resilience, and leadership that define both professions. Their experiences are an inspiring reminder of the many paths our students take as they prepare to serve patients and communities—and, for our military students, to serve those who serve our country. Read the full story as reported in the Orange Observer.

From the Classroom to Clinical Care: OMS-III Students Begin Rotations


A major milestone is underway for OCOM’s OMS-III students as they transition from the preclinical classroom into clinical education. Beginning their rotations marks an exciting new chapter as students put their knowledge and skills into practice alongside physicians and healthcare teams in clinical settings. Over the coming year, our students will gain hands-on experience across a variety of specialties and patient-care environments, building the clinical knowledge, confidence, and professional skills that will prepare them for residency and their future careers as physicians. We look forward to celebrating their experiences and accomplishments throughout this important stage of their education.

Prospective Student Sessions

OCOM continues to build momentum as a leading destination for medical education in Central Florida—and you can play a role in shaping our future classes.



We invite you to refer prospective students to our upcoming virtual information session on Wednesday, August 26th, or an on-campus Open House, on Friday, October 9, 2026 where attendees will gain insight into:

• The medical school application process
• Undergraduate prerequisites and preparation
• What to expect on the journey to becoming a physician

Your referrals are invaluable in helping us attract passionate, mission-driven future physicians.

Dean's Blog

Stay connected with OCOM’s vision and progress through the Dean’s Blog, authored by Dean and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Robert T. Hasty. In this ongoing series, Dr. Hasty shares insights on medical education, updates on OCOM’s growth, and perspectives on the evolving healthcare landscape. It’s a great way to hear directly from OCOM’s leadership and gain a deeper understanding of our mission to prepare compassionate, skilled physicians for the future.

Sign-up below to receive the Dean's Blog right to your email each month.

The OCOM Podcast

For a dynamic and engaging way to learn more about the OCOM community, check out the OCOM Podcast. Each episode dives into different aspects of the student experience, from admissions and simulation training to mental health and leadership in medical school. Hosted by OCOM, the podcast brings together faculty, students, and guests to highlight the stories and resources shaping tomorrow’s doctors.

Episodes are available to stream everywhere you get podcasts.

Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Youtube.