68 New Challenges and Opportunities THE ACOFP DISTINGUISHED FELLOW AWARD The ACOFP Conclave of Fellows, and the ensuing establishment of the rank of fellow in 1962 under the direction of ACOFP President James Rowland, DO, had grown into an effective body that provided a repository of future leaders for the organization and its respective departments. It also served to impart valuable experience and counsel to the Congress of Delegates and Board of Governors when needed. As membership of the conclave grew steadily over the years, it became evident that there needed to be another rank or distinction above that of fellow to honor those members who had contributed much time and effort to ACOFP, their communities, and the osteopathic profession. After a member worked hard to obtain the fellow designation, there was little to do beyond attending conclave meetings and induction ceremonies once a year. There needed to be some motivation to keep them active, not only in the profession but also in their communities and state and local organizations. This responsibility of developing a mechanism fell on the Executive Council of the Conclave of Fellows. It needed to create a pathway and requirements to achieve this new rank. Although the task seemed straightforward initially, it took the council nearly two years to complete it. The executive council members were: Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP (chair); Jeffry A. Lindenbaum, DO, FACOFP (vice chair); Richard J. Krejsa, DO, FACOFP (secretary); Carol L. Henwood, DO, FACOFP; Jan. D. Zieren, DO, FACOFP; Donald Kotoske, DO, FACOFP; and Amelia G. Tunanidas, DO, FACOFP. Since the first publication of this book in 2004, ACOFP has continued to grow, adapt, and even thrive in the face of new opportunities, challenges, and threats. ACOFP has been steadfast in its commitment to be there for its members and the profession — from expanding recognition opportunities of ACOFP members and evolving one of ACOFP’s top member benefits (the OFP journal) to addressing issues of the day, like single accreditation and COVID-19. Crystal awards signify the honor of the ACOFP distinguished fellowship.
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