More than 35 students from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) College of Osteopathic Medicine traveled to Olympia this January to participate in DO Day 2026, an annual advocacy event that brings osteopathic medical students, faculty, and physicians together with state legislators to discuss pressing healthcare policy issues.
This year’s conversations focused primarily on preceptor pay and the new loan limits imposed by the federal government—two issues that directly impact students, healthcare systems, and communities across Washington state. Through meetings with lawmakers, PNWU students shared firsthand perspectives on the challenges of securing clinical rotation placements and the financial burden placed on medical trainees.
Several legislators expressed strong interest in advancing solutions, including potential legislation to create a more equitable clinical education experience. Among those engaged in discussions were Speaker Laurie Jinkins, Senator Bob Hasegawa, and Representatives Chris Corry and Jeremie Dufault.
Student Voices Driving Change
For many students, DO Day represented more than a single day of advocacy: it was an opportunity to build lasting relationships and realize the power of their voices.
Nathaniel Giauque, OMS-I, Class of 2029, shared that his motivation to attend stemmed from a desire to make a tangible difference early in his career.
“I chose to become a physician so that I could make a difference,” Giauque said. “Politics can feel like a game of who can be the squeakiest wheel, and I don’t feel like there’s time to waste. I want my political leaders to know who I am, hear my voice, and think of me when questions about medical policy arise.”
During a meeting with Senator Nikki Torres, Giauque experienced firsthand the value of sustained engagement.
“She remembered me from a previous visit to campus,” he said. “Knowing I had already made an impression gave credence to my words in our meeting. That small connection made me realize how impactful early involvement can be.”
Giauque also emphasized the collective strength of PNWU students.
“None of us are ‘just students.’ We all bring meaningful life experience and a genuine desire to help others. There’s no better time for us to get involved. We truly have the opportunity to change the world for the better.”
Advocacy as a Core Skill for Future Physicians
For Amber Kisielewski, OMS-II, Class of 2028, DO Day is a natural extension of a physician’s responsibility to advocate for patients.
“Part of my role as a future physician is to advocate for my patients in whatever arena I can,” Kisielewski said. “If we want to protect vulnerable populations and improve our healthcare system, we have to talk directly with the people who write our laws.”
A seasoned participant, Kisielewski has attended DO Day in Olympia as well as National DO Day in Washington, D.C. She noted that one of the most important lessons she has learned is the critical role healthcare professionals play in educating policymakers.
“Most legislators don’t have healthcare backgrounds,” she explained. “If we want informed healthcare policy, we need to help them understand the realities and challenges faced by providers, students, and patients. They truly appreciate that perspective.”
One of the most impactful moments of DO Day 2026 came during meetings with Representatives Chris Corry and Jeremie Dufault, where students discussed preceptor parity and clinical rotation challenges affecting Washington’s three medical schools.
“After hearing why this issue matters to us and to communities like Yakima and central Washington, both representatives committed to supporting us,” Kisielewski said. “We’re now working toward drafting legislation together over the course of the year.”
She also emphasized the broader value of advocacy training.
“This is an incredible opportunity for students across all PNWU programs to learn advocacy skills. I encourage everyone to participate in their profession’s advocacy day.”
Kisielewski credited fellow students Kathryn McCoy, Simi Kaur, Nathaniel Giauque, Francisco Robles, Beneshia Robinson, Chris Lee, and Sarah Vukelich, along with Dr. Crystal Martin, for making the day especially meaningful.
Building the Future of Healthcare
DO Day 2026 demonstrated the power of student-led advocacy and reinforced PNWU’s commitment to developing physicians who are not only clinically skilled, but also engaged leaders and changemakers. By sharing their stories and expertise, PNWU students helped shape conversations that may influence healthcare policy across Washington state for years to come.
