July Student of the Month: Tanner Buckway, OMS-IV
by ACOI
June 26, 2025
ACOI recognizes osteopathic medical students who are outstanding members of their medical schools and communities with the Student of the Month Recognition Program.
Please join us in congratulating the July winner: Tanner Buckway, OMS-IV, Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Southern Utah.
Student Doctor Buckway was nominated because of his dedication to osteopathic internal medicine through leadership, research, and service.
Tanner’s work ethic and intellectual curiosity set him apart as an exceptional student. His role as a Predoctoral Anatomy Fellow demonstrates his commitment to medical education, where he excels in teaching complex anatomical concepts and mentoring peers. His ability to integrate foundational sciences with clinical applications highlights his advanced understanding of osteopathic medicine. Further, he is profoundly gifted in teaching anatomy and medicine via Ultrasound, having served as the lead scholar and president of the Ultrasound Student Group at RVU.
His dedication to internal medicine is evident through his leadership in the Internal Medicine Interest Group and participation in the Physician Scientist Track. Tanner’s extensive research portfolio, including studies on cardiovascular physiology, coronary calcium screening, and anatomical variations, reflects his commitment to advancing the field. His research has been presented at conferences, underscoring his ability to contribute meaningful insights to the medical community.
Beyond academics, Tanner actively engages in service and clinical education. His efforts in facilitating EKG and echocardiography machine donations and providing community health education exemplify his passion for patient care. His leadership in ultrasound training further demonstrates his ability to bridge medical education and clinical practice.
Meet Tanner Buckway
What is your hometown?
Ogden, Utah
What is your education?
I received my bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Weber State University. I currently attend Rocky Vista University- Southern Utah Campus in Ivins, Utah for my Doctorate of Osteopathy.
What are your hobbies?
My wife often jokes that I have too many hobbies, and she’s probably right. I’ve always had a wide range of interests that keep me curious and active. I’m a huge sports fan and enjoy both playing and keeping up with the latest headlines, stats, and even the drama of the sports world. I play pickleball about three times a week and compete in a local league. I also love reading, especially science fiction, Dune is my favorite series. Recently, I’ve gotten into painting miniature figurines, which has been a fun and creative outlet as I learn the ropes. I enjoy running for exercise, even if I’m not the fastest, and I’m always up for a good movie or video game. I also love board games, whether it’s a casual round with friends or a longer strategy session. Because I’m from Utah, of course I love to snow ski and wakeboard, two activities that make the most of the beautiful seasons here.
Most of all, I value time with my family, exploring new places and hunting for our next favorite restaurant with my wife, or jumping into whatever activity captures my son’s imagination that day.
What are three things people may not know about you?
I’m fluent in Spanish after living in Argentina for two years, an experience that deeply shaped the way I connect with people from different backgrounds. While I was there, I also got stung by a scorpion, which, to this day, remains one of the most painful experiences I’ve ever had! I’m also a huge history buff. In fact, my wife and I chose Gettysburg, Pennsylvania as our honeymoon destination just so we could dive into Civil War history firsthand. It might not be the most traditional choice, but it was perfect for us.
How has ACOI helped you in your education so far?
ACOI has played a meaningful role in my medical education by connecting me with mentors and resources that go beyond what I get in the classroom or on rotations. Their emphasis on whole-person care has helped me think more broadly about how I approach each patient, not just their symptoms. I’ve really appreciated the sense of community they foster. Whether it's through conferences, online learning, or just hearing from experienced physicians, ACOI has reminded me why I chose this path and continues to help me grow into the kind of internist I hope to become.
Do you have an idea of what specialty you would like to go into?
I'm drawn to internal medicine because of the intellectual challenge and the variety it offers. I enjoy working through complex cases where multiple systems and conditions intersect, and I find it incredibly rewarding to be the one who can piece everything together. I appreciate that internists are often the first to be called for lab abnormalities, puzzling symptoms, or unclear diagnoses, and that we’re expected to respond thoughtfully and efficiently. The mix of acute care and long-term management keeps me engaged and constantly learning, which is exactly what I want in a career.