Annual event in Washington, D.C., empowers champions of naturopathic medicine to raise their voices, unifying the profession nationwide.
On April 27, students, faculty, staff and board members from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) joined colleagues from naturopathic institutions across the U.S. on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the advancement of naturopathic medicine.
Their trip was part of the annual D.C. Federal Legislative Initiative (FLI) program, organized by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) to provide naturopathic doctors and students with leadership and professional training.
Each year, the multi-day event brings attendees together to refine their ability to effectively convey the value of naturopathic medicine in health care. Onsite training sessions emphasize storytelling, relationship-building and policy navigation—skills designed to empower attendees as advocates throughout their careers.
On Capitol Hill Lobby Day, students gain an in-depth look at the legislative process by meeting with congressional offices to raise awareness of the needs and priorities of the naturopathic medical field.
Coretha Ngoma, a dual-degree student in the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine and Master of Science in Global Health programs at NUNM, described her participation in the event as “truly transformative”.
“Standing in those important spaces, directly addressing lawmakers, and advocating for the growth of the naturopathic profession were both humbling and empowering,” Ngoma said.
Laurel Plitnik, a fellow second-year student in the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program, said the experience deepened her sense of purpose as a future naturopathic doctor.
NUNM students Coretha Ngoma (left), Laurel Plitnik, Stacey Propst (right) 
NUNM board member Dr. Trevor Cates (left), student Melia Voss and staff member Dr. Carrie Baldwin-Sayre (right) 
NUNM board member Dr. Mike Cronin (left) with students Stacey Propst and Rudo Duri (right) 
NUNM DC FLI 2025 contingent 
NUNM DC FLI 2025 contingent 
U.S. Capitol Building, D.C.
“Being in our nation’s capital for this critical moment heightened my own vitality and vis,” she said. “Even if none of our asks and requests get honored, knowing that I have put in my part to support what I believe in gives me a sense of inner peace and satisfaction.”
While the event inspired future participation, Ngoma said it also showed her how she might expand these efforts beyond the national level.
“I’m particularly driven to advocate for the recognition and legislative support of naturopathy in states like Georgia, where the profession has much potential for growth,” she said.
Plitnik echoed the importance of staying active and engaged in advocacy efforts to promote equity within the profession and solidify one’s personal mission.
“While it’s true many legislators cannot put a lot of energy into our stories,” she said, “being able to understand that reasoning within yourself allows for passion and clarity to shine through when proposing the asks, talking about this profession, and even crafting your own professionalism.”
While these events are opportunities to connect with naturopathic communities nationwide, she added that they can also help unify the voices of those working in the field.
“I’m thrilled to exist within this greater good as a catalyst for change,” Plitnik said. “The fire has been fed, and it will burn brightly as I await DC FLI 2026.”
Written by Ashley Villarreal, Marketing Content Specialist