We are excited to announce the launch of the new Master Fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine (MFAWM) certification. Over the past two years, we have been revamping the MFAWM to make it more accessible for our members while ensuring that the program maintains the high standards originally set forth. In contrast to the FAWM, where you are recognized for the knowledge you have acquired as a student of wilderness medicine, the MFAWM allows you to teach and be recognized for what you have contributed to further the field.
In order to apply for the new MFAWM recognition, you must:
- have received your FAWM at least five years ago
- have attended five WMS Conferences (either live or virtual)
- be an active member
- have been actively involved in teaching wilderness medicine since achieving your FAWM
- complete your MFAWM portfolio (see below)
You must also have an MFAWM advisor to help you complete and review your application before submitting it to the MFAWM Committee. The Committee will then review your application and make a recommendation to the WMS Board of Directors for acceptance. On accepted by the board, the applicant will then pay the candidacy fee of $500 and become a Life Member of the WMS.
Portfolio
- A portfolio consists of your application, an Experience Report, a scholarly project, and a brief essay.
- The Experience Report is a multiple of categories from you must obtain at least 100 of a possible 205 credits to complete. Categories are: Academics, Awards and Recognition, Publications, Service, Teaching, Test Writing and Review, and Other.
- A scholarly project must also be completed, which can consist of lectures, publications in the WEM journal, textbook chapter publication, creation of guidelines or tools for wilderness medicine, or the creation of a new wilderness medicine certification program.
- Finally, an essay detailing the three wilderness medicine-related accomplishments you are most proud of is required. This essay should include a brief 1-2 paragraphs per accomplishment and how you feel each impacted wilderness medicine. With the exception of your essay, which can consist of activities completed before you were awarded your FAWM, all other parts of your portfolio must have been completed after receiving your FAWM.
MFAWM recipients are expected to attend WMS conferences to be available to help with lectures, small groups, roundtable discussions, and other activities, as well as serve as advisors for future MFAWM candidates and provide input on their applications.
For more information, please review the MFAWM page on the WMS website. Given the extensive review that must be undertaken, acceptance of applications will be on a rolling basis.