When Karen J. Nichols, DO, became president of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) in July 2010, she became the first woman to lead the association since its establishment in 1897. Throughout her career, Dr. Nichols has been a pioneer in the osteopathic medical profession. As an osteopathic medical student at the Kansas City (Mo.) University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine, she was one of only eight women in her graduating class of 165. She served in leadership roles during her student career including vice president of her class for all four years and president of Delta Omega, now known as the National Osteopathic Women Physicians Association. As a practicing physician, Dr. Nichols also made a critical impact on patient care. While serving as chief of staff of Mesa (Ariz.) General Hospital, she became involved in a case that introduced her to the important role physicians play in the final days of terminally ill patients. At the time, no policies existed when it came to end-of-life care. Dr. Nichols led the effort to develop policy and educate health care providers on end-of-life care issues. Her interest in hospice and palliative medicine remains today, and she continues to educate physicians about this important area of medicine through the AOA Council on Palliative Care Issues, which Dr. Nichols helped found. After 17 years of practicing internal medicine, Dr. Nichols turned to educating future physicians, becoming dean of the Midwestern University/Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (MWU/CCOM) in Downers Grove, Ill., in 2002. Taking on this role has allowed her to share valuable experience and training with the next generation of osteopathic physicians. While she is currently on leave from her role as MWU/CCOM dean to focus on her AOA responsibilities full time, she continues to encourage students (and every member of the osteopathic family, for that matter) to get involved and make a difference within the profession. She serves as a true inspiration for many, both women and men. For these reasons, we believe President Nichols deserves to be honored with an International Women’s Day Outstanding Service Award.