Dr. David K. McDonogh Scholarship for Aspiring Physicians awards $5,000 to underrepresented U.S. medical students pursuing ophthalmology or ENT. Open to African American, Afro-Latino(a), and Native American students. Apply by mid-September with transcripts, recommendations, essay, and resume.
| Scholarship | Dr. David K. McDonogh Scholarship for Aspiring Physicians |
|---|
| Who Can Apply? | African American/Black Afro-Latino(a), Native American medical students |
| Award Amount | $5,000 |
| Deadline | Mid-September (2025 deadline TBA). |
| Application Requirements | Medical school transcript Two recommendation letters One-page personal essay, and Resume. |
| Apply | https://nmfonline.org/ |
The Dr. David K. McDonogh Scholarship for Aspiring Physicians was created to support underrepresented medical students pursuing careers in ophthalmology and otolaryngology (ENT).
If you’re an African American, Afro-Latino(a), or Native American medical student with a passion for these specialties, this $5,000 scholarship could be for you.
Beyond financial support, this award is about honoring a legacy—Dr. McDonogh was born into slavery in 1821, fought against systemic barriers, and became the first African American specialist in ophthalmology and ENT. Nearly two centuries later, this scholarship continues his mission to create opportunities for future leaders in the field.
Eligibility
- Currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. medical school
- Identify as African American/Black, Afro-Latino(a), or Native American
- Passion for ophthalmology or ENT as a future career
- Demonstrated commitment to academic excellence, research, leadership, and service
Location Requirement: Preference for medical students in New York City, but students nationwide may be eligible. Always check with the scholarship committee for confirmation.
Scholarship Details
- Award Amount: $5,000 grant (for research or travel related to ophthalmology/ENT)
- Deadline: Typically in mid-September (2025 deadline TBA)
- Presentation Requirement: Recipients must present their research at the Dr. David K. McDonogh Scholarship in Ophthalmology/ENT Lecture and Awards Reception
Documents Requirements
- Medical School Transcript – Show them you’re serious about your studies.
- Two Letters of Recommendation – Get endorsements from mentors or professors who know your potential.
- Personal Essay (One Page, Single-Spaced) – Who are you, and why do you want this scholarship? Make it compelling.
- Resume – Highlight your academic, leadership, and service experiences.
How to Apply:
- Email all materials to Jacquie Wright at wrightwaygroup0@gmail.com (2025 contact TBA).
- Keep an eye on updates via National Medical Fellowships Inc. or the National Medical Association Ophthalmology Section.
Dr. David Kearny McDonogh’s journey was one of resilience. Though he trained at Columbia University, racism prevented him from receiving his medical degree.
In 2018, nearly 170 years later, Columbia posthumously awarded him his MD, presented to his great-great-granddaughter.
This scholarship is not just about funding—it’s about carrying forward a legacy of breaking barriers in medicine. If you have a passion for ophthalmology or ENT and are committed to making a difference, this is an opportunity worth pursuing.
Final Reminder: Deadlines are strict—start early, gather strong recommendation letters, and craft a personal essay that stands out.
For updates, visit the National Medical Fellowships website or contact the scholarship coordinator.
