The OAFP Foundation (Foundation) kicked off a new tradition this summer with its inaugural Legacy Reception on August 15, honoring the 35th anniversary of the Leroy A. Rodgers, MD, Preceptorship Program. Guests gathered at Mezzo in Dublin, OH, to celebrate donors, preceptors, past participants, and the program’s national recognition as the AAFP Foundation’s 2025 Outstanding Program.
The evening spotlighted the impact of our generous supporters, recognized our 2025 Family Physician Mentorship Award recipient, and honored the preceptors and students who embody the mission of family medicine in Ohio. Attendees also looked ahead to the future, reflecting on how far the program has come and how vital it is to ensure its continued growth.
The following day, attendees at the Family Medicine Celebration carried the momentum forward and reinforced the power of community in advancing family medicine. Between pre-event contributions, including the Past Presidents’ Quilt Raffle, and donations made during these events, the Foundation raised $11,600 towards its year-end goal of $35,000.
Join the 35 for 35 Challenge!
In honor of 35 years of impact, we’re challenging our community to raise $35,000 by the end of 2025 to fuel the next generation of family physicians.
So far, the program has connected more than 1,600 medical students with family physician mentors, shaping countless careers and strengthening the pathway of physicians dedicated to serving Ohio communities.
As Dr. Joseph Laseter, a 2019 participant, shared:
“This program puts the power of family medicine into action; uniting established and budding physicians for the sake of patients everywhere. This experience cemented my desire to pursue family medicine—I wanted to be embedded in the community and know my patients like my preceptor did.”
Every contribution brings us closer to the goal and helps fund student stipends and expand mentorship opportunities. You can:
- Make a personal donation
- Honor a mentor, mentee, or colleague with a gift in their name
- Start a friendly challenge within your practice, residency program, or community.
Together, we can celebrate 35 years of connection—and invest in many more to come. Join us in reaching $35,000 by Wednesday, December 31, to keep the legacy strong.
If you have questions about the Preceptorship Program or the Foundation’s work, please contact Kaitlin McGuffie.