MacKenzie Toliver credits her grandparents with sparking her interest in medicine at an early age. When she was 4, they gifted her a healthcare and anatomy toy set, which helped shape the path she follows today.

Now a fourth-year medical student at Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Toliver is driven by her commitment to serving others and advancing health equity.

“Medicine allows me to combine my passion for science, advocacy and human connection while working alongside patients during some of the most important moments of their lives,” she said.

At OSU-COM, Toliver has dedicated herself to caring for underserved populations. She is part of the Urban Underserved Medical Track and is pursuing her Master of Science in Global Health. Additionally, she was a 2024-25 Albert Schweitzer Fellow and named the 2026 OSU Student Doctor of the Year.

Most recently, she was one of 37 medical students from across the country to be selected for the 2026-27 ElevateMeD Scholars Program.

ElevateMeD supports emerging physicians from underrepresented backgrounds through financial support, mentorship and professional development.

“ElevateMeD recognizes that building a stronger healthcare system starts with investing in the people who will lead it. By supporting medical students from varied backgrounds, the organization is helping create a physician workforce that reflects and understands the communities it serves,” Toliver said.

Toliver first heard about ElevateMeD through past scholars and OSU-COM alumni Jada Lusk and Emily Sowah. As she researched the program, she found herself inspired by its mission and decided to apply.

“The mission deeply resonates with my own experience and goals. I saw it as an opportunity to join a network of future physicians who share a commitment to health equity and service,” she said.

Toliver said being chosen as an ElevateMeD Scholar is an incredible honor.

“I’m beyond grateful that they have chosen to invest in my future and value the communities and experiences that have shaped my journey,” she said.

ElevateMeD will award Toliver a scholarship for her final year at OSU-COM. She said the support will be invaluable as it alleviates some of the financial burden of medical school, allowing her to focus more on her education and prepare for residency.

Beyond the scholarship, ElevateMeD invests in medical students through mentorship, leadership development and community. Toliver will be paired with a physician mentor for career guidance.

At the annual Scholars Summit in September, she will have the opportunity to connect with mentors and peers during professional development workshops.

Toliver said she’s looking forward to learning from and building relationships with students and physicians from around the country.

“I anticipate this community will support me even beyond my residency as I build my practice and support global health initiatives. ElevateMeD reinforces my commitment to serving others and becoming the kind of physician who helps create lasting change,” she said.