Medical students from the Michigan State University Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine and Human Medicine were honored with prestigious national awards at the 2025 College of American Pathologists (CAP) annual meeting, further establishing the combined colleges Pathology Interest Group as a national leader in student-led pathology excellence.
“As a pathologist, I’m deeply aware of the critical shortage facing our field. That’s why seeing such a vibrant and committed Pathology Interest Group is profoundly meaningful,” said Joyce deJong, D.O., dean of the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. “These students are stepping into a space that urgently needs their curiosity, talent and leadership. Their recognition by the College of American Pathologists affirms that the future of pathology is in capable hands.”
Third-year College of Osteopathic Medicine medical student Nicholas Barron received both the CAP Distinguished Medical Student Award and the CAP Foundation Sparking Interest in Pathology Award, honors that recognize students who demonstrate exceptional interest and leadership in the field. Fourth-year D.O. student Eric Johnson was awarded the CAP Medical Student Travel Award, supporting his participation and engagement at the CAP25 meeting in September.
Fourth-year College of Human Medicine medical student Justin Tran presented his abstract, “Rethinking AI in Pathology Education: Evaluating ChatGPT-4.0’s Effectiveness in Creating Pathology-Related USMLE Step 1 and COMLEX Level 1 Board-Style Questions,” highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence in medical education and assessment. That same research was co-presented by Meredith Herman, D.O., a 2023 College of Osteopathic Medicine alumna and second-year resident at Michigan Medicine Department of Pathology. She was also named CAP Resident of the Year, a testament to her leadership, research and clinical impact in pathology.
About the Pathology Interest Group
These achievements reflect the MSU Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine and Human Medicine Pathology Interest Group’s expanding influence. Formed in 2020 by a small group of students seeking stronger exposure to pathology, the organization has grown into a collaborative, cross-college initiative supported by faculty from both the colleges. The group has organized national guest lectures, research opportunities and community outreach events designed to spark interest in pathology among pre-clinical and clinical students alike.
Through mentorship, research and national involvement, the MSU Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine and Human Medicine Pathology Interest Group continues to demonstrate the potential of student-led initiatives to transform medical education and patient care.
By Andrea Mackey