The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine welcomed its seventh cohort of student doctors to campus on Monday, July 22, for the start of the 2024-2025 academic year.

The Class of 2028 consists of 162 students including 35 Idahoans.

“Idaho and this region continue to face an acute and growing shortage of physicians, and we know that many of these student doctors will one day return to practice medicine here,” said Dr. Tracy J. Farnsworth, ICOM President.

The College’s seventh cohort is academically strong, increasingly diverse, and comes to ICOM from 26 states and 101 colleges and universities.

“We are thrilled to welcome our incoming class of medical students and we are exceptionally proud of the caliber of these future healthcare leaders,” said Amanda Griswold, Director of Admissions. “This cohort represents strong academic achievement, dedication to community service, and a profound commitment to advancing medical science. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences will enrich our institution and contribute significantly to the future of health care within Idaho and other medically underserved communities. We are confident that these compassionate individuals will make outstanding contributions to the health and well-being of our society.”

ICOM’s Class of 2028 is participating in New Student Orientation July 22-25. Orientation week will culminate with a White Coat Ceremony on July 26 — a rite of passage for first-year osteopathic medical students. The ceremony signifies a commitment to the osteopathic profession and patient care.

The first day of classes for the 2024-2025 academic year begins on Monday, July 29.

ICOM has also received approval to increase its class size from 150 to 220 students for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Council on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA) of the American Osteopathic Association granted ICOM approval for a class size increase in June.