08/19/2026
Our own Dr. Terri Nickel!
Every Fellow has a unique story of leadership, service, and dedication to osteopathic family medicine. We're counting down to the September 15 deadline to apply by sharing current Fellows' stories.
Terri Nickel, DO, MMM, FACOFP (pictured at the far right, bottom corner) became a Fellow in 2012.
Who was your Fellow Award sponsor, and what qualities did you most admire in them?
"My Fellow Award sponsor was Dr. Joel Feder, who has been a mentor throughout my career. He has continually encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue leadership opportunities, including serving as President of the Kansas Society of the ACOFP and joining the Kansas Academy of Osteopathic Medicine Board. Dr. Feder has always challenged me to grow professionally and personally, and he continues to inspire me to strive to do more and be better."
What inspired you to pursue the Fellow Award and/or Distinguished Fellow Award? Was it a personal decision, or did someone encourage you?
"Dr. Feder has been a constant source of encouragement, continually motivating me to pursue becoming a Distinguished Fellow. Our state has only five Fellows, and just one has achieved Distinguished Fellow status, making this an especially meaningful goal."
Has becoming a Fellow influenced the trajectory of your career? If so, how?
"Becoming a Fellow was a pivotal milestone in my career. It served as the catalyst for my transition into administrative leadership within our organization, ultimately leading me to pursue and earn my Master of Medical Management (MMM)."
In one word, what does the Conclave of Fellows mean to you?
"Family."
Interested in joining the Conclave of Fellows? Send in your application by September 15: https://ow.ly/azQF50ZB4b0
