Student Doctor Alex Downs

Northwest Osteopathic Foundation General Scholarship Recipient

Alex Downs is an outstanding medical student at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU), where he exemplifies excellence, empathy, and service to community.

Raised in rural eastern Washington, Alex’s path—from Clarkston High School to Carroll College, and a Master of Arts in Medical Sciences from Heritage University—reflects his dedication to improving healthcare access across the Northwest.

At PNWU, he serves as an Osteopathic Principles and Practice Scholar, mentoring students and teaching osteopathic principles through leadership and example.

At the Union Gospel Mission Free Clinic, Alex helped establish a student-run program for patients who often have no other options for care. Sometimes he provides OMT; other times, he simply listens. He’s learned that presence and consistency rebuild trust where healthcare has failed.

Through Wellness House, he supports people facing cancer, offering care and understanding beyond the medical chart. He also helped revive Special Olympics Yakima, organizing practices and coaching teams—reminding him that community health is not only about medicine but also belonging and joy.

Rooted in the Northwest and guided by osteopathic principles, Alex plans to practice Family Medicine, bringing compassionate, whole-person care to rural communities.