Jeffrey E. Sterling, MD, MPH, FACEP

To My Beloved Members of the Student National Medical Association:

I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Hans Owuor for the esteemed position of SNMA National President-Elect. I have witnessed Hans’s exceptional leadership, innovative thinking, and unwavering dedication to health advocacy and education through his pioneering role as the first Assistant Surgeon General to the Eastern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

During his time as Assistant Surgeon General, the fraternity saw the implementation of region-wide webinars designed to educate our college brothers on vital health topics including sexual health, health disparities in Black communities, and pathways to careers in the healthcare field. His adeptness in translating complex health issues into accessible and engaging educational content has significantly heightened our members’ awareness and understanding, fostering a culture of health-consciousness and proactive engagement.

Moreover, Hans was instrumental in guiding our college chapters through the challenging transition back to in-person programming on college campuses following the COVID-19 pandemic. His strategic foresight and effective communication ensured that chapters were well-prepared to resume their activities safely and responsibly. Notably, Hans played a critical role in drafting the health and safety guidelines for the first Regional College Brother’s Retreat since the onset of the pandemic, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees.

It is also important to highlight that the position of Assistant Surgeon General, which Hans has served with distinction, was a role he himself proposed to the regional leadership. His initiative to create and subsequently excel in this role is a testament to his innovative spirit and genuine commitment to the health and welfare of his peers.

Hans’s multifaceted experience, coupled with his proven ability to lead with compassion, intelligence, and effectiveness, makes him an exemplary candidate for the position of SNMA National President-elect. His programmatic efforts within the fraternity are indicative of his capability to enact meaningful change, align with the SNMA’s mission, and further its impact on a national level. I am confident that Hans Owuor will bring the same level of dedication, innovation, and leadership to the SNMA as he has demonstrated in his role as Assistant Surgeon General. I strongly endorse his candidacy and believe he will make an outstanding National President-Elect and, subsequently, National President.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey E. Sterling, MD
Chairman, SNMA (1988-1991), SNMA Chairman Emeritus (1991) Surgeon General, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity