The Colorado Medical Society (CMS) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Alfred D. Gilchrist Student Leader Scholarship, with a deadline set for April 1. The scholarships will be awarded in May or June of 2026.
Applicants are required to detail their experience in organized medicine and submit a personal statement of up to 500 words, a letter of recommendation, and a curriculum vitae. A headshot may also be included but is not mandatory. The application allows edits after submission, and if multiple applications are submitted by one person, only the most recent will be considered final.
The Alfred D. Gilchrist Student Leader Scholarship Foundation was created in 2020 to recognize Mr. Gilchrist’s four decades of advocacy on behalf of physicians. Mr. Gilchrist previously served as CEO of CMS. Scholarships typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 per recipient.
Eligibility is limited to third- and fourth-year medical students who have shown significant leadership within organized medicine. According to the announcement, “Preference will be given to students who are active with CMS or a Colorado component medical society.” Previous recipients are not eligible for the award.
To qualify, candidates must be full-time medical students in good standing at an accredited Colorado medical school and have completed at least two years of study. They must also demonstrate notable leadership contributions during their time as medical students, especially those linked with the Colorado Medical Society.
“Candidates who have made significant contributions in leadership roles connected with the Colorado Medical Society will be given a priority for selection,” according to program guidelines.
