Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine Welcomes Distinguished New Members to the Board of Trustees
Winter Garden, FL — December 13, 2024 — Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine (OCOM) is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Trustees. These accomplished leaders bring a wealth of experience across healthcare administration, education, political advocacy, and community engagement, strengthening OCOM’s position as a leading institution in medical education.
Maggie Bonko, MA, FACHE
Maggie Bonko, MA, FACHE serves as President of Orlando Health Health Central Hospital located in Ocoee, just a few miles from OCOM. Her role as a community leader and healthcare executive will enhance OCOM’s mission to fortify local partnerships and foster collaborative health initiatives. Ms. Bonko has already started hosting leadership events for Orlando Health at OCOM, emphasizing the importance of shared resources in building a stronger community healthcare network.
Val Demings
Val Demings, former U.S. Member of Congress and distinguished public servant, joins the Board as a strong advocate for medical education. Known for her dedication to the Central Florida community and strong political influence, Mrs. Demings’ involvement adds a unique perspective to the board. Recently nominated to serve on the United States Postal Service’s Board of Governors by President Joe Biden, Mrs. Demings is a powerful speaker and advocate for OCOM, bringing influential representation to the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Gregory Scott, PhD, ACHE
Dr. Gregory Scott, Director at Eastern Virginia Medical School, brings his extensive expertise in online medical education delivery. As OCOM continues to evolve in educational delivery, Dr. Scott’s insight into digital program development will guide OCOM’s path toward accessible, innovative learning environments for its students. Dr. Scott’s experience launching online programs positions OCOM to strategically expand its educational reach.
Dr. Kalpesh Solanki, DO, FACC
Dr. Kalpesh Solanki, cardiologist and leader at the Cardiovascular Institute of Central Florida, has expressed strong interest in serving as a core rotation site for OCOM students, and his clinical network offers valuable resources for medical training. With hundreds of rotation sites throughout Central Florida, Dr. Solanki’s group provides essential clinical opportunities for students across multiple healthcare disciplines and has supported OCOM’s parent institution in the past, further committing to the next generation of medical professionals.
Dr. Alpesh Desai, DO
Dr. Desai, Founder of Heights Dermatology & Aesthetics Center & Medical Director of MDRI Research, brings an extensive background in research and innovative practice to OCOM. With distinguished residency programs and a network of 30 independent dermatology clinics across multiple states, he provides invaluable resources and visionary approach to student training and research while remaining hyper-focused on an unparalleled patient experience and journey. His recent breakthrough in vitiligo, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis treatments exemplifies his dedication to advancing clinical research, harmonizing seamlessly with OCOM's mission to push the boundaries of healthcare knowledge and foster medical discovery.
Dean & Chief Academic Officer Robert T. Hasty, DO shared his enthusiasm about the new trustees, stating: "Each of these individuals brings unique strengths that will help us grow in service to our faculty, staff, students and our community. Their influence in areas of healthcare, education, and public service will guide OCOM in its mission to lead in modern medical education and community health.”
The newest additions to OCOM's Board of Trustees bring a rich variety of perspectives and skills from both Central Florida and across the nation. Each member is an established leader in their respective field, from healthcare administration and academic program development to public service and advanced clinical research. This collective expertise will provide OCOM with invaluable guidance as it continues to innovate and expand its reach within medical education, clinical training, and community engagement. Their contributions will enhance OCOM’s ability to serve students and the broader Central Florida community, positioning the college as a central hub for modern medical education and healthcare advancement.
For more information, please contact:
Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine
Rachel Freeman, Director of Communications and Marketing
rfreeman@ocom.org
321-222-5781
ocom.org
