OU Student Named Tillman Scholar
Cynthia Bejar, a second-year medical student in the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, has been named a 2020 Tillman Scholar.
She is among the 60 U.S. service members, veterans and military spouses named to the Pat Tillman Foundation’s 12th class of scholars. Bejar is one of 10 OU students to receive this award since 2009.
Tillman Scholars are selected for their high potential for impact as demonstrated through a proven track record of leadership, the continued pursuit of education and the commitment of their resources to service beyond self.
The foundation provides recipients with academic scholarships, a national peer network and professional development opportunities – empowering the scholars to make an impact at home and around the world.
“I am honored and incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this group of scholars,” Bejar said. “To be accepted into a community of people striving to make this world a better place is humbling, especially when it connects back to the sacrifice and courage of one person. I am excited about this life-changing opportunity and am committed to living up to this new set of expectations.”
Born in San Fernando Valley, California, and raised in Mustang, Oklahoma, Bejar is the daughter of Jose and Rosa Bejar. She earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science from Oklahoma State University and is now in her second year of medical school at the OU College of Medicine.
Bejar has co-authored publications on translational genetics, cardiovascular disease, and ischemic strokes and intends to continue contributing to scientific literature as a physician scientist. Additionally, as a physician, Bejar hopes to help uninsured populations at local community clinics, promote health education and empower patients to ask questions and learn where to look for resources in their local communities.
She is extremely active in the medical community, most recently serving as founder and vice president of the OU Health Sciences Center chapter of Building the Next Generation of Academic Physicians, interest group chair for the OU College of Medicine Student Council, Latino clinic coordinator for Reach Out and Read, vice president of the OU Medical Center 501c3 nonprofit Executive Board of Volunteers, and is a member of the American Medical Association and Oklahoma State Medical Association.
Bejar enjoys engaging in health initiatives to promote education in the community, as well as pioneering patient-centered companionship and literacy programs in the health care setting. Her volunteer work includes serving at community health screenings, health education fairs and trainings, OU Medical center, community clinics and mentoring young students.
More information on Bejar and the Tillman Scholars Program can be found at pattillmanfoundation.org/meet-our-scholars.
By Mackenzie Scheer
Article Published: Wednesday, July 1, 2020