TCOM’s Dr. Meaghan Nelsen named the ACOOG Mentor of the Year
A physician is many things to many people: a friend, a confidant, a healer and a mentor. Meaghan Nelsen, DO, MS, FACOOG, IBCLC embodies all of those qualities, and because of that, she is the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists 2025 Mentor of the Year. Nelsen, an associate professor at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, was selected from a group of OBGYNs nominated annually by college members.
“As an osteopathic OB/GYN who’s honored to have received the ‘Mentor of the Year’ award from the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists, I’m deeply touched by the student nominations that made this possible,” Nelsen said. “The importance of strong mentorship in OB/GYN cannot be overstated in today’s medical education landscape. In a specialty that demands both technical precision and interpersonal sensitivity, today’s students face unprecedented challenges: evolving reproductive health policies, increasing maternal mortality rates, healthcare disparities and expanding technological innovations.”’
Nelsen, TCOM’s year 2 curriculum director, is the 15th recipient of the award. The ACOOG Membership and Promotions Committee chose her for her contributions, dedication to osteopathic education, and commitment to improving women’s health.
“OB/GYN can involve emotionally challenging cases, unpredictable schedules, and high-stakes decisions, so I work diligently to combat the ‘negative press’ our field occasionally receives, modeling sustainable approaches to practice and providing a safe space for students to process difficult experiences,” Nelsen said.
“This foundation of wellness is critical for preventing burnout and fostering career longevity. Perhaps most importantly, mentorship creates a legacy of excellence. The students we guide today become tomorrow’s physicians, educators and mentors. When we invest in student development, we’re investing in the future of women’s healthcare.”
Nelsen is a Richards College Faculty Advisor, where she serves as a mentor, role model and guide for TCOM students. Nelsen was the advisor for TCOM student Alicia Segovia, whom she helped navigate through some difficult circumstances early in medical school.
A few excerpts from the student nominators of Nelsen showcase why she was this year’s award winner.
“Through her mentorship, I have learned how to communicate…with my peers, teammates, and patients, not only as a leader but as a listener.”
“She is not only brilliant but also knows how to share her knowledge as a teacher and mentor. She is wise and candid and will share with you what you need to hear when you need to hear it.”
“She attentively listened to what I had to say and reassured me that my passion for women’s health is all that mattered.”
“I chose Nelsen as a mentor because she is brave; she is open and vulnerable regarding her personal and professional life, and this demonstrates enormous courage. Additionally, Nelsen is generous in sharing her knowledge and helping students develop tangible clinical skills.”
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