Southern Medical Association Announces Recipients of the 2025 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships, awarded during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly held November 13-15 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Donna Breen, MD, FACS, SMA’s 2021-2022 President, these scholarships, each valued at $2,500, have been awarded to Olivia Sosnoski, a fourth-year student at the University of Tennessee, and Marthena Phan, a fourth-year medical student at the FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine.

Olivia is applying for residency in emergency medicine. During her time in medical school, she has presented her own original research at conferences, including the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. She also has been inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and Imhotep Leadership Society for her dedication to her patients and community.

Marthena is applying to child neurology residency programs, inspired by her experience growing up with a brother with autism. She has conducted pediatric epilepsy research at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, presenting nationally and regionally, and her clinical interests include neurodevelopmental disabilities, behavioral neurology, and neuro-oncology. Although she was unable to attend the presentation ceremony, Marthena provided a heartfelt message of thanks.

“Dr. Breen’s remarkable generosity enables SMA to invest in deserving students like Olivia and Marthena—individuals dedicated to advancing medicine and improving patient care,” said SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. “We are profoundly grateful for her steadfast leadership and ongoing support.”

SMA extends warmest congratulations to both recipients and appreciates the commitment of all applicants who strive to make a difference in their communities. It is through generous donations, as well as contributions to SMA’s Research and Education Endowment Fund, which has provided more than $3.7 million in financial support through scientific research grants, loans, and medical student scholarships. To learn more or to donate, please visit https://sma.org/research-and-education/