D'Youville University Welcomes the Inaugural Class of Its College of Osteopathic Medicine

A historic day for D'Youville, Buffalo, and the future of healthcare in Western New York.

Today, D'Youville University officially welcomed the inaugural class of its College of Osteopathic Medicine (DYU-COM), marking the opening of Western New York's first osteopathic medical school and the region's first new medical school in nearly 200 years. After years of planning, preparation, and collaboration, 97 future physicians walked into their first day of medical school, launching a new chapter for both the University and healthcare across New York State.

"There are moments when a single decision can shape the future of an entire region. Today is one of those moments," said Dr. Lorrie Clemo, President of D'Youville University. "The students beginning their education at D'Youville will one day care for our families, strengthen our healthcare workforce, and improve the health of communities throughout Western New York. That is what makes today a defining moment not only for D'Youville, but for our region."

The inaugural class was filled ahead of schedule, attracting students from across the country whose academic credentials exceeded initial expectations. Forty-six percent of the class comes from New York State, reflecting both the program's national appeal and D'Youville's commitment to educating physicians with strong ties to the communities they will ultimately serve.

For Dr. Nicholas Camposeo, Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, the day represents the culmination of years of work by faculty, staff, and University leadership.

"This is the moment we've been working toward since the College was first envisioned," said Camposeo. "Our faculty and staff are excited to welcome these students and begin preparing the next generation of osteopathic physicians. As the inaugural class, they will help establish the culture, traditions, and legacy of this medical school while learning what it means to provide compassionate, whole-person care."

Students will begin their education on D'Youville's main campus before transitioning in Fall 2027 to the College's permanent home at 285 Delaware Avenue, where renovations are underway to transform the 125,000-square-foot building into a state-of-the-art medical education facility. The College has also established nearly 50 clinical affiliation agreements across New York State, ensuring students receive diverse, hands-on clinical experiences throughout their medical education.

As classes begin, the focus shifts from building a medical school to educating future physicians. Guided by the principles of osteopathic medicine and whole-person care, D'Youville's newest students will spend the next four years preparing to serve patients, strengthen communities, and help address physician shortages across New York State.

Welcome to the Class of 2030. The future of medicine starts today.