American College of Osteopathic Internists
David Susser, DO, MACOI Award

Established in 2024, this award honors the legacy of David Susser, DO, MACOI, who consistently demonstrated integrity, compassion, generosity of time and spirit, and commitment to quality in his personal and professional life. Dr. Susser was a pioneer in osteopathic internal medicine who led specialization in the internal medicine community. Dr. Susser was a true lover of the arts, humanities, and community.

The award recognizes candidates who demonstrate/excel in the following qualities:

• Commitment to excellence and integrity
• Sense of compassion and care for others
• Resilience and how they have overcome adversity
• Academic performance and commitment to quality
• Generosity of spirit and commitment to community and self-improvement

Eligibility:

ACOI members who are internal medicine residents or 4th year students who have matched to internal medicine.

Nomination Requirements:

Nominees must submit a personal statement and two (2) letters of recommendation, including at least one professional recommendation from a colleague, teacher, or mentor.

Timeline:

Submit your nomination materials to acoi@acoi.org by July 31, 2024.

The recipient will receive a $10,000 honorarium presented on Friday, November 1 during the Awards Ceremony at ACOI 2024 in Scottsdale, Arizona. The recipient is requested to be present at the Awards Ceremony.

David Susser, DO, MACOI, was a trailblazer for osteopathic internal medicine physicians. A cardiologist and former head of Internal Medicine at Botsford Hospital (Michigan), Dr. Susser was among the first osteopathic internal medicine physicians to pursue sub-specialization, and encouraged others to do the same, thus widening opportunities for osteopathic physicians nationwide.

A Past President of the American College of Osteopathic Internists, Dr. Susser trained six additional past presidents of ACOI, one of many indicators of his impact as a teacher, mentor, and role model.

Dr. Susser’s high personal standards led to a continual pursuit of excellence through education and self-improvement in all areas of life and not just medicine. A patron of the arts and humanities, he also studied cooking, and throughout his life took on challenges that did not come easy to him such as playing the flute and tap dancing. He led by quiet example but was an outspoken proponent of civil rights and feminism. Dr. Susser was masterful with words and had a sharp and analytical mind. Quick-witted and well-spoken, he paired his humility with uncompromising ethics.

The David Susser, DO, MACOI, Legacy Award will recognize physicians who demonstrate similar traits as Dr. Susser.