Clubs, student organizations, honorary societies, interfaith groups and student government associations offer students a chance to get involved. Students join these groups to meet peers, learn more about a professional organization, voice an opinion or volunteer in the community.
There are many meetings, presentations, workshops and events that take place during the academic year. Student groups hold fundraisers to benefit area nonprofits, help local kids, attend national conventions and provide extracurricular opportunities. Most clubs and organizations are free to join although some have a fee through their national office. Most clubs welcome students from all programs however some are program-specific. All groups have a faculty or staff advisor to support co-curricular and extracurricular events throughout the year.
Students requiring an accommodation to participate in a club activity should contact the department of Student Affairs.
Clubs
American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine Club (AAPSM) strives to promote education and the enhancement of knowledge in the field of podiatric sports medicine. Our goal is to provide students an opportunity to advance their understanding of evaluation, treatment, management and prevention of lower extremity injuries in sports and fitness through educational seminars and workshops. We believe that through this mission, we will positively affect the public’s awareness of podiatric sports medicine and its promise to ensure health and safety in the active individual.
American Association of Women Podiatrists (AAWP) welcomes both male and female members. AAWP celebrates the strides that women have made in the podiatric medical field and encourages the presence of women in podiatric medicine. We accomplish this by pairing with the Women's Medical Alliance for Girls in Science Day and Women in Medicine Q&A. AAWP also sponsors skill-building events such as goal setting workshops, self-defense classes and ultrasound practice. AAWP's community service events and skill-building events provide experiences that are valuable to both men and women.
American College of Osteopathic Surgeons- Medical Student Section (ACOC-MSS) is an organization of students interested in expanding their knowledge of surgery and surgical techniques through activities such as guest lectures, procedure/simulation workshops, suturing clinics, knot tying labs, mentoring programs, conventions and socials with fellow students and surgeons. ACOC-MSS is the student division of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons; thus joining ACOC-MSS will also provide you with a connection to surgeons in practice and the benefits of their national organization. All students are welcome to join because, as you will soon find out, all specialties involve some aspects of surgery.
American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) is the national professional organization for osteopathic family physicians. Through its student chapters, ACOFP promotes awareness and interest in osteopathic family medicine. The DMU student chapter of ACOFP is very active both on campus and in the community, offering educational, community service and recreational programs. The DMU-ACOFP chapter offers an abundance of opportunities for volunteering, as well as sponsors a mentoring program, access to preceptors, Grand Rounds Program, National Osteopathic Medicine Week activities, scholarships and many other activities. All students in the College of Osteopathic Medicine are offered a free four-year membership and full access to these benefits.
American College of Podiatric Medicine (ACPM) serves the interests of students by educating and informing podiatric medical students of the trends and developments in podiatric medicine, orthopedics and sports medicine. The club presents lecturers who are leaders in the various fields of podiatric medicine and also sponsors workshops and clinical rotations covering various aspects of podiatric medicine and sports medicine. The podiatric profession often works to enhance the scope of many orthopedic clinics around the country and this club enables its members to become aware of the many topics in the field. It will be the policy of the student chapter to present and maintain a broad, well-balanced program for all IPMSA members.
American Medical Student Association (AMSA), with nearly a half-century of medical student activism, is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the U.S. developed and governed by students. AMSA is involved in global health and service projects, works to increase awareness of social issues, and advocates for both osteopathic and allopathic medical students. AMSA is a leader in advocating for principles in medical practice and training through campaigns like PharmFree and the AIDS Advocacy Network. AMSA has recently become the U.S. member organization of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA). AMSA recognizes the challenge of attending medical school and offers benefits to help its members succeed. Membership benefits include a free print deck of Rohen’s Photographic Anatomy Flash Cards and a free anatomy survival guide digital edition for first year students, a free print deck of Rubin’s Pathology Flash Cards for second year students, and a free 12 month access to 5MinuteConsult.com. Also, the AMSA website offers discounts for medical reference tools for smartphones and PDAs. AMSA memberships also provide discounts for car insurance, hotel accommodations and car rentals. The membership also provides you with the opportunity to network with other medical students throughout the country and so much more! At DMU’s chapter, we focus our efforts into equipping students with ultrasound skills, cultivating political advocacy for medical professionals, community service at places like Ronald McDonald House, as well as hosting speakers to discuss issues about addiction in the field of medicine.
Anatomy Ambassadors Program is a club open to all who are interested with teaching and interacting with the community. In this program people are asked to give on and off campus organ demonstrations to kids ranging from elementary school to undergraduate school. This program allows students to have hands on teaching experience with members of the community. There are no dues associated with this program.
Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA) student club aims to promote health and wellness in a culturally competent manner with the health care community at Des Moines University. APAMSA will serve as a platform through which the Des Moines University community can address the prevalent healthcare issues in the Asian Pacific American community.
The Anesthesiology Club is open to COM students that have an interest in anesthesiology. The group’s mission is to promote anesthesiology and offer opportunities to learn about various aspects of the specialty and subspecialties within the field by bringing speakers to the campus and through other activities. The primary goals are to provide a forum for students who share an interest in anesthesiology to exchange information and to help prepare students interested in pursuing anesthesiology in residency. The group maintains a national connection through the American Society of Anesthesiologists medical student component. Included in ASA membership is the journal Anesthesiology and a monthly ASA newsletter as well as resources provided by the ASA (meeting info, calendars, etc).
The Dermatology Club is open to all students at Des Moines University. It was created to raise student, staff, faculty and public awareness of present and future preventive and palliative dermatological care. It introduces students to information regarding residency training and necessary steps to competitive applications in this field. The club creates excellent educational and clinical training opportunities aimed at enhancing dermatological health for dermatological specialists and primary care providers. Our goal is to build a strong network for medical students and residents who are working to become tomorrow's providers of health care in the field of dermatology and other primary care fields.
Des Moines University Health Leaders strives to provide opportunities for students and executives to interact, explore issues regarding successful leadership and management, build an evidenced-based approach to leading and managing health care organizations, share knowledge and experiences, and learn with each other how to build a strong network of current and future Iowa health care leaders. Our mission is to provide opportunities for practical experience and to build professional development through enhanced networking capabilities within the community.
The Emergency Medicine Club (EM), nationally registered with the American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians and the American College of Emergency Physicians, serves students interested in emergency medicine. Members have opportunities to learn new, cutting edge information from speakers engaged in emergency services. Members are also able to develop skills through various workshops organized by the EM club including casting, intubation, EKG and suturing clinics. The club has shadowing programs available to members through Mercy’s EM department as well as ride-alongs with West Des Moines Emergency Medical Services. The Emergency Medicine Club can also help students network with professionals which is beneficial to those who plan to practice emergency medicine.
Geriatrics Club provides the opportunity to enhance educational exposure to elderly patient care, diagnosis and treatment. Geriatrics Club members expand their knowledge of geriatric medicine and gerontology which permeate every healthcare field. Our activities include physician shadowing, hosting the fall Senior Health Fair and many other opportunities to interact with older adults. The Geriatrics Club is open to all interested students and works with various older adult resource centers including AARP. All students are invited to join.
Global Health Student Club (GHSC) is committed to promoting awareness of global public health concerns and supporting the greater efforts of the DMU Global Health Department. The primary goals and objectives of the club are to promote interest and develop awareness of global health opportunities as well as gain exposure to health care practices around the world through local events and, if available, regional and international events. We explore these topics both in school and through local volunteer opportunities, especially related to refugees. Throughout the year, we strive to have events that expose students to health care practices in different cultures and areas of the world. All students are invited to join.
Homeless Community Outreach (HCO) is open to all members of the Des Moines University community. Our goal is to establish personal, caring relationships with the homeless around Des Moines in which the campers’ dignity and humanity is validated. HCO has great weekly opportunities to achieve this goal. We visit area homeless camps, educate volunteers about the lives of homeless people, partner with other existing homeless outreach programs, and help homeless mothers by watching their children. We also administer volunteering opportunities through the Free Clinics of Iowa at several different sites in Des Moines. This may include taking vitals, histories or just assisting the attending physicians as they treat real patients. Other major events throughout the year include Reggie’s Sleepout (a local event to bring awareness to youth homelessness), National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week activities (SNAP Challenge and Hunger Banquet) and speakers presenting issues facing our local homeless community.
Human Dignity in Medicine (HDM)is an organization focused on the discussion of challenging bioethical topics in medicine such as abortion, CRISPR and physician-assisted dying. Our goal is to foster an inclusive and productive learning environment where all are welcome to participate and to learn about challenging topics from various perspectives. Hearing from different perspectives will allow us to deepen our appreciation for the dignity and autonomy of human beings. It will give us the opportunity to grow in our understanding of how to approach difficult bioethical issues in a pluralistic and multicultural society. The club will bring in speakers, provide presentations and provide literature concerning these topics.
Infectious Disease and Public Health Club (IDPHC) is open to all students of the University. Its mission is to enlighten students on issues and events in the areas of public health and infectious diseases, particularly those which are emerging and could affect individuals in the United States. Our goal is to provide presentations and interactions on campus with people who have first-hand experience with these issues.
Internal Medicine Club (IM Club) aims to educate its members on the large and diverse field of internal medicine. Branches of internal medicine include Allergy and Immunology, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, General Internal Medicine, Hepatology, Hematology, Hospitalist, Infectious Disease, Nephrology, Oncology, Pulmonary and Rheumatology. Throughout the year, we bring in clinicians and other lecturers to speak on internal medicine and provide case studies, participate in skills workshops including ultrasound, provide opportunities to interact with residents and faculty of internal medicine though dinners, grand rounds, case conferences and many other events! IM Club is part of the national American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American College of Osteopathic Internists (ACOI).
Iowa Medical Society (AMA/IMS) - The goal of AMA/IMS is to promote medical education through community service projects. The club will also offer opportunities to work with other medical students in the state and emphasize the importance of cooperation between MDs and DOs. Through delegates in the student chapter, students will also have an opportunity to influence medical legislation at the state level. Membership through DMU/IMS will also allow students to join the AMA which entitles them to a free set of Netter’s Anatomy flash cards and a subscription to JAMA. Students will also receive a free back pack for joining DMU/IMS.
The Master’s Advisory Group to the Anatomy and Biomedical Sciences mission is to promote a sense of identity and inclusiveness for all DMU students, develop leaders within our community, and facilitate interprofessional education and scholarly advancement within the university.
The Medical Humanities Society (MHS), will provide a forum for interested participants to discuss areas of medicine that are not necessarily covered or emphasized in the core curriculum. Topics may address the social determinants of health or the environmental, cultural and spiritual dimensions that shape the health of populations. Students will have the opportunity to learn more about global public health, health systems, health policy and health disparities. The Medical Humanities club will be responsible for the management of the optional Bigger Picture Summer Reading Program – a program that allows incoming freshmen to read a book from a proposed list and discuss the book in a small group facilitated by second years. There is potential for additional reading groups throughout the year, if desired. In addition, a documentary and other short films may be screened throughout the year to be followed by thoughtful discussions. There are no membership dues to join.
Medical Students for Choice (MSFC) was organized to promote an understanding of women’s reproductive health and to ensure that women receive the full range of reproductive health care choices. The club’s objectives are to create awareness regarding the present and future of women’s reproductive health care through educational efforts; create excellent educational and clinical training opportunities aimed at enhancing women’s reproductive health care; and build a network of support and resources for medical students who are working to become tomorrow’s pro-choice health care providers.
Medical Students for Latino Health (MSLH) is among the first to be established at Osteopathic medical schools throughout the U.S. In addition to serving the national MSLH mission, our DMU chapter will strive to increase awareness within the MSLH about Osteopathic Medicine. Locally, we will work to provide support for programs aimed at meeting the health care needs of the Latino community within Des Moines including (but not limited to) partnerships and volunteer opportunities with La Clinica, Visiting Nurse Services (VNS) of Des Moines and the Polk County Department of Health. Another key focus of our DMU Chapter will be to reach out to Latino high school and college students who are interested in pursuing health professions careers, as these individuals are currently underrepresented in medicine. We will work with the Department of Admissions to sponsor the Summer Health P.A.S.S. (Health Professions Advanced Scholars Program) and with DMU's Area Health Education Center (AHEC) and the Community Ambassadors Program (CAP) to support and volunteer at events that recruit high school and college underrepresented students to the health professions.
Medical Students for a Sustainable Future at Des Moines University (MS4SF) seeks to improve the lives of patients by acknowledging and advocating for the ways climate change harms human health and social justice. This aligns with DMU’s mission to improve lives in the global community and supporting equity. This club will benefit DMU by providing further educational opportunities for students, develop connections with climate and health experts, and bring sustainable and cost-effective programs to the current and new campus.
National Arab American Medical Association NextGen (NAAMA NextGen) aims to celebrate various ethnic and cultural backgrounds and highlight the diversity within the Arab world. NAAMA also seeks to create a space for Arab students in medicine to network with each other and established physicians nationwide. We believe that NAAMA will be a great organization to highlight the diversity within DMU and create a space for Arab students and for others to learn about Arab culture.
Neurology Club was organized to explore the complex array of medical, psychological and social issues impacting upon the ill patient. The club will present speakers and programs to discuss the connection between the functions of the organ system and the functions of the brain, thereby laying a strong foundation for understanding mind-body relationships. Neurology Club also offers educational opportunities to complement classroom learning, service opportunities and research presentations. Membership is open to all students.
Obstetrics and Gynecology (Ob/Gyn) Club was organized to provide exposure to topics relating to obstetrics, gynecology and women’s health through speakers and activities. The club will present speakers to educate students about the various paths in the Ob/Gyn field. There will be opportunities to participate in community service projects that are within the Ob/Gyn spectrum, including observations at the Broadlawns Medical Center OB Clinic.
The Oncology Club and Honor Society was established to provide exposure, for its members and those interested in oncology, to clinical, community and translational research aspects of the field. All students enrolled in COM, CPMS or CHS are eligible to participate. All club members are encouraged to be active in Oncology Club activities, but in order to attain Honor Society induction, the active member must complete tasks in a minimum of five categories including, but not limited to, research presentations, clinical observation, meeting attendance, grand rounds, tumor boards, student cancer conferences and volunteer opportunities. Successful completion of the active participant objectives will result in membership induction in the Oncology Honor Society, recognized by certification.
Pediatrics Club is all about gaining experience, service and fun. We are dedicated to offering monthly meetings where students will learn about the profession and be inspired to make it through one more night of late studying. The Peds Club wants to help you determine if pediatrics is a profession you would like to pursue. To fulfill that goal, the club has lunchtime pediatric specialist speakers and grand rounds. In addition, you have the opportunity volunteer at Gigi’s Playhouse, a local Down Syndrome Achievement Center, volunteer at Blank Children’s Hospital and help with SOS babysitting in order to gain real-life experience with kids and teenagers. In our commitment to service, the club has numerous interactive events such as the Orchard Place Halloween Party, Children’s Cancer Connection Spring Fling, YMCA Healthy Kids Day and much more! When you have the time, we have an uplifting activity. All DMU students are welcome to join the club. The only requirement is a love of children!
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Club (PM&R) is for osteopathic medical students interested in the specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, or PM&R. This field of medicine is centered on patients who have physical disabilities resulting from conditions affecting any system of the body. Physicians in PM&R are called physiatrists and treat patients who have suffered from brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal injuries/disorders among other ailments. The goal of PM&R is to bring about a patient’s maximum physical restoration. The chapter’s mission is to help students learn more about the field through guest speakers, clinical and community service opportunities, and provide information regarding residency programs.
Physical Therapy Club (PT) is a voluntary extracurricular club designed to supplement the growing and learning experiences of students, as well as provide opportunities for leadership roles. Community service activities are available based on member interest and have included volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, SCI Golf Outing, Wesley Acres and Stroke Club. P.T. Club sponsors activities in October to celebrate National Physical Therapy Month and participates in the Senior Health Fair each year. Activities occur throughout the year to enable students to relate to those with movement limitations. Community speakers will make presentations to enhance knowledge concerning current topics in Physical Therapy and health care.
Physician Assistant Club (PA) is geared towards current PA students, encouraging them to promote academic achievement, clinical excellence and professional identity. Since the medical field is such a changing and advancing area of study, our goal is to keep abreast of current medical developments and apply our skills within the community. Also, since the PA is a relatively new member of the health care team, we will educate both the public and DMU about the contributions PAs have made toward advancing medicine. All programs are welcome to join.
Podiatric Practice Management & Journal Club (PPMJC) covers two facets, podiatric practice management and effectively researching the medical literature. A practice management seminar with a prominent member of the podiatric profession is held each semester. These guest speakers discuss a variety of topics, such as procedures for setting up a podiatric office and the keys to a successful practice. Additional meetings are designed to help students prepare for clinical rotations and residency. An essential adjunct to a podiatric education is early exposure to the journal reading necessary for continuing education in this specialty field. Knowing how to use the latest evidence-based research in the care of the foot and ankle is a crucial task for all podiatric students to master by the time they enter practice. PPMJC has regular journal topic assignments to read for our discussions on critically reading medical literature. These sessions emphasize learning the most efficient ways to delve into medical literature to prepare for rotations and residency, as well as giving an early step up into the clinical picture for 1st and 2nd year students.
Preventive Medicine Club (PMC) is dedicated to educating both DMU and the Greater Des Moines community about prevention and integrative medicine as pathways to healing of the mind, body and spirit. We seek to promote health and fitness, to educate on complementary and alternative therapies, and to raise awareness as to the benefits of preventive and integrative medicine. We accomplish these goals through hosting guest speakers (on nutrition, complementary and alternative medicine, preventive medicine, etc), participating at Personal Wellness Profiles, volunteering at the Food is Medicine Booth at the Farmer’s Market and other events, leading meditation sessions and having informational booths on nutrition and active lifestyles at various events. We advocate practices that incorporate the entire human (body, mind and soul) and emphasize active, nutritious lifestyles. Students from all DMU programs are welcome; our ultimate goal is to promote compassionate, open-minded future clinicians keen on maintaining good health for themselves and their community.
Pride Alliance acts as an avenue for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and straight students to celebrate our unique diversity in healthcare. The club focuses on promoting acceptance and providing support for LGBT health care students, physicians and other health care providers, as well as offering opportunities for straight students to learn and better understand LGBT issues and culture. Activities center on education and awareness, including presentations on health care topics, anti-discrimination issues and unique aspects of caring for LGBT patients. Various area service events offer a chance for DMU students to share our goals with the community. All club events offer a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Psychiatry Club develops programs that expose the membership to various psychiatry specialties and topics through a variety of lectures and laboratories. The club also seeks to provide a broader education in the field of psychiatry.
The Student Association for Radiology Club (SAR) mission is to further students' understanding of imaging techniques and their utility in all areas of medicine. The club will inform students of career and sub-specialties of radiology. The club will discuss residency opportunities. and enrich the lives of DMU students and the community through education and charitable service.
Sports Medicine Club is open to all DMU students interested in the well being of athletes. This club provides luncheon lectures with speakers in all areas of Sports Medicine (e.g., family practice physicians, orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers and PTs). The club also attempts to provide opportunities for members to work with the local sports medicine physicians. The club hosts an annual taping clinic and does many community service activities with local athletes.
Student American Academy of Osteopathy (SAAO) is a nationally recognized organization with an extremely active chapter on the DMU campus. Our goal is to provide diverse, “hands on” opportunities to learn what Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) is all about. The club accomplishes this by sponsoring innovative workshops and luncheon programs with nationally renowned osteopathic physicians. SAAO also sponsors the Osteopathic Finish Line (OFL), which provides an OMM treatment tent at local road races, and an opportunity for members to practice their OMM skills outside of the classroom environment. Joining SAAO would provide you with multiple opportunities to experience DMU’s unique osteopathic point of view.
Student Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (SAMOPS) is directed at students attending medical school on scholarship with the military or Public Health Service. The primary goals of the chapter are to assist members in obtaining information concerning officer training, the scholarship itself, military clinical rotations, residency programs and medicine in a military environment, and to provide information on life in the military in general. Some of our scheduled plans include team building and combat training exercises at Camp Dodge, club BBQ, opportunities to volunteer, plus a variety of interesting speakers with various military experiences. We’re looking forward to sharing more information with you about a great way to finance your education!
Student Chapter of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (SCACFAS) introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices essential to the surgically oriented podiatric physician. Included in monthly meetings are interactive surgical skills labs, case presentations and a clinical perspective in regard to the surgical aspects of primary care. The club also stresses the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to total foot care.
Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent and socially conscious physicians. SNMA is designed to serve the health needs of underserved communities and communities of color. In addition, SNMA is dedicated both to ensuring that medical education and services are culturally sensitive to the needs of diverse populations and to increasing the number of African-American, Latino and other students of color entering and completing medical school.
Student National Podiatric Medical Association (SNPMA) is a national organization dedicated to bringing podiatric medicine awareness to the local communities, especially to the minority communities. Our local chapter’s goal is to increase awareness of podiatric medicine in Des Moines by volunteering for community-oriented projects including serving food at the local Catholic Worker House, sports events and fundraising for nonprofit organizations. We also provide information on proper foot care and career opportunities to high school students through Des Moines University’s Community Awareness Program.
The Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) was formed to enhance the knowledge of the profession of occupational therapy through professional, educational, community and social activities. The organization will facilitate opportunities for camaraderie among students, as well as provide meaningful, productive interaction with faculty, the University and the community.
Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA) is the representative body for osteopathic medical students across the nation, and actively links students to the members, philosophies and activities of the Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association (IOMA) and the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), the state and national governing organizations of the osteopathic medical community. The Des Moines University SOMA chapter works locally to assist osteopathic medical students throughout their medical school training by providing educational lectures, community service opportunities and a strong support system and professional network. Nationally, SOMA works to promote awareness of student concerns to the AOA, to provide benefits that will make life as a medical student more enjoyable, and to address issues that affect not only the osteopathic medical community, but society in general.
The Student Osteopathic Orthopedic Association (SOOA) aims to form a bridge between Osteopathic Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery. The group tries to provide all members with the opportunity to change the future of Osteopathic Orthopedic medicine and promotes the development of well educated and experienced health care practitioners. To do this, the club will invite orthopedists to come speak to club members regarding orthopedics as a career, the residency application, the orthopedic residency, as well as other areas of interest. The group is working to provide members with local shadowing opportunities, setting up various teaching assistant driven surgical skills/suturing clinics, as well as physician directed surgical dissections.
The mission of the Women's Medical Alliance (WMA) of DMU is to improve the personal and professional well being of its members, increase the influence of women in all aspects of the medical profession, and enhance the quality of women's health care. The club sponsors speakers addressing issues that women face both as patients and health care providers. Community involvement includes volunteering with the Senior Health Fair, Race for the Cure, Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and blood drives. Another successful WMA sponsored event is the Girls in Science Day which is a program to encourage involvement of middle school aged girls in the sciences.
Honorary Societies
Alpha Eta is the national scholastic honor society of the allied health professions. Its purpose is to promote and recognize scholarship, leadership and contributions to the allied health professions.
The Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) recognizes students, residents and faculty who are exemplars of compassionate patient care and who serve as role models, mentors and leaders in medicine. GHHS members are peer-nominated and are the ones that others say they want taking care of their own family. Its members have a responsibility to model, support and advocate for compassionate, patient-centered care throughout their careers. The creation of a GHHS chapter signifies to the medical community that an institution places high value on the interpersonal skills and attitudes that are essential for the highest level of patient care. DMU was the nation’s second osteopathic medical school to have a GHHS Chapter.
Pi Alpha is the national physician assistant honor society organized for the promotion and recognition of significant academic achievement, leadership, research community/professional service and related activities, and the encouragement of a high standard of character and conduct among both physician assistant students and graduates.
Pi Delta (Iota Chapter) recognizes the academic achievements of students in the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. The primary objective of Pi Delta is to promote high scholarship in the podiatric sciences in order to progressively advance the profession. Election into Pi Delta symbolizes high scholastic achievement and provides a professional scholarship incentive. Another important objective of Pi Delta is the promotion of scholarly fellowship by bringing together students and faculty in a fraternal-scholastic relationship. Regular meetings of Pi Delta emphasize the professional aspects of podiatric medicine and serve as a guide for instructive study and research.
Sigma Sigma Phi (SSP) is the National Osteopathic Honor Society that is actively involved in organizing several large conferences throughout the year, as well as many community and campus projects. Each local chapter represents those students who excel academically and who show a strong commitment to extracurricular involvement. Those students who are academically eligible are invited to apply for membership during the Fall and/or Spring membership drive. SSP membership may be looked at favorably by many competitive residencies.
Interfaith Student Groups
American Muslim Medical Student Association (AMMSA) is a local chapter of the National Islamic Medical Association. The organization offers students a forum to celebrate extensive contributions of Islamic medicine and to encourage its practice. The organization further serves as a spiritual conduit for those seeking to live by Islamic values and tenets. Weekly and daily prayers are offered in congregation. The organization works intimately with Des Moines area mosques in alleviating medical, education and financial hardships of indigent populations. Membership in AMMSA is open to all medical students.
Novus Medicus is a community of early-career medical professionals who want to be good Catholics and good doctors. A common emphasis found throughout Catholic Social teaching is the protection of the vulnerable. As future health providers, we will be put into situations where we care for vulnerable individuals. This club will help us develop the skills of showing compassion towards vulnerable populations through implementing Catholic teachings, speakers, discussions, and service opportunities. In addition to developing compassion, this club will help our global community. This will be done through our involvement in the national organization, Catholic Medical Association, and its student subsection Novus Medicus. Through the national organization, we have an incredible opportunity to influence and improve the lives of individuals across the country. This connection will foster interactions between DMU students in the organization with Catholic medical students, residents, and attending physicians in Des Moines and throughout the country.
Christian Medical Association (CMA) is the local affiliate of the national Christian Medical and Dental Association. The club’s focus at DMU is to encourage students to live their lives for Christ and to assist them in their faith, as they become physicians and health care professionals. Weekly meetings at noon provide time for praise and worship, speakers, and prayer. Outside of the noon hour, men’s and women’s Bible studies meet weekly and fellowship events are held monthly. Unique opportunities to serve the local community exist through a free clinic and a homeless shelter.
The mission of the Jewish Medical Student Association (JMSA) at Des Moines University is to foster community amongst Jewish students and to share Jewish values and practices with university affiliates. JMSA offers opportunities to celebrate Jewish holidays, to learn about relationships between Judaism and healthcare, and to converse with other students and faculty who are interested in exploring Jewish culture and identity. The group also strives to provide resources for students to connect with greater Des Moines Jewish organizations.
Special Affiliates and Advisory Committees
DMU Chamber Ensemble is a music performing group comprised of DMU faculty and students. Typical performances include playing at local Nursing Homes, like Wesley Acres, and the annual body donor memorial service. The group’s repertoire includes both classical and contemporary pieces. String, piano, brass and wind players of all levels are welcome! We choose music that is easy to sight-read since we are all busy and want to keep music part of our lives!
DMU Choir invites students from all programs to participate. Practice is held on a weekly basis with more frequent rehearsals as a performance nears. A wide variety of musical styles are rehearsed and the choir is looking for all vocal ranges. The group averages nearly 20 students, but all are not obligated to sing in every event. The choir has been involved in on-campus events such as the Veterans Day observance and Commencement Banquets.
Multicultural Affairs Student Advisory Committee (MASAC) provides input on programming to explore topics of diversity. Students are invited to participate in regular discussions as well as planning sessions for campus events, speakers and other activities. Please visit here for additional information on on-campus programs and organizations that promote diversity in healthcare.
Podiatric Medicine Advocacy (PMA) is the representative advocacy group for the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery (CPMS). The goal of PMA is to inform the community of the role and value of podiatric medicine, promote parity with other health care fields and educate current students on the benefits of becoming a foot and ankle specialist.
The American Podiatric Medical Students’ Association (APMSA) is the only national organization representing the approximately 2,300 podiatric medical students enrolled across the country at the nine colleges of podiatric medicine. In addition to the school-wide student body president, classes from each individual school elect an APMSA delegate to represent and advocate on their behalf at a national level. These student leaders from each college comprise the APMSA House of Delegates who meet twice annually to address and resolve student issues and problems, to represent students to the podiatric medical community, and to further the podiatric profession in the delivery of health care. More information can be found at https://www.apmsa.org/.
Student Government Associations
The purpose of the College of Health Sciences Student Government Association (CHS SGA) is to promote Des Moines University throughout the community, and to improve communication between students, faculty and administration within the College. In addition, the CHS SGA will allocate funds for the College of Health Sciences and coordinate activities for interaction amongst the programs.
College of Osteopathic Medicine Student Government Association (COM SGA) acts as the official representatives of the COM student body in all matters with regard to the faculty, administration, fellow professionals and the general public. Functions of the COM SGA include providing a mechanism for student governance over issues and events affecting the College of Osteopathic Medicine, to evaluate and promote the teaching and the practice of the art and science of osteopathic medicine, and to facilitate cooperation, communication and understanding among the various health science disciplines within DMU. Other responsibilities include representing the students of COM to the college’s external public, including community and professional organizations, supporting the clubs organized within COM and to consider all requests for funding through student government funds held within the College of Osteopathic Medicine.
College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Student Government Association (CPMS SGA) functions as the governing body for students in the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery (CPMS). Every podiatric medical student is required to maintain membership in CPMS-SGA. The SGA holds monthly meetings in which all CPMS students are invited and play a role as a voting member. CPMS-SGA serves as an umbrella organization over all podiatric clubs. CPMS-SGA sends APMSA representatives from each class as well as the president to semi-annual American Podiatric Medical Students Association meetings. These representatives convey CPMS student opinions and return with information about a variety of topics such as board exams, residency structures, scholarships and other opportunities for all podiatric medical students. Dues also allow you to receive the monthly Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association (JAPMA) and the APMA News. All students are automatically registered in CPMS-SGA and the membership fee appears on your tuition statement.
Student Government Association Advisory Council (SGA AC) is an integrated, collaborative and interdisciplinary student advisory group to Student Affairs and the University on issues and matters affecting the university's student body. The council is comprised of the president and vice president of all three Student Government Associations on the campus. The Council meets monthly during the noon hour to organize and lead university-wide student events, participate in proactive discussions, provide feedback and leadership assistance to the University to support shared governance.