AANA24 Wrist & Elbow All-Access Pass-GENERAL SCIENTIFIC SESSION: Diversity Session, AANA Awards, Announcement of the 2024-2025 Board of Directors Slate (Main Stage)

GENERAL SCIENTIFIC SESSION: Diversity Session, AANA Awards, Announcement of the 2024-2025 Board of Directors Slate (Main Stage)

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Video Summary

The General Session of the AANA meeting featured a Diversity Session highlighting the importance of inclusivity in orthopedic surgery, which remains one of the least diverse medical subspecialties, particularly in ethnicity and gender representation. Moderated by Dr. John Tokish and Dr. Rachel Frank, the session showcased inspiring stories from women orthopedic surgeons who have been supported and mentored by their surgeon fathers, emphasizing the power of family, mentorship, and grit in overcoming challenges unique to women and minorities in orthopedics. These narratives underscored how diversity improves patient care and outcomes.<br /><br />The event also honored distinguished award recipients, including Jeff Abrams and Bob Burks, recognized for outstanding leadership and commitment to education and academic integrity in the field. A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Steve Burkhart for pioneering contributions to arthroscopic shoulder surgery, revolutionizing military and civilian patient care, accompanied by reflections on his principles and legacy.<br /><br />Further recognitions included research awards for advances in shoulder surgery and resident/fellow achievements, along with the Dockmatter Engagement Award for member contributions. The Traveling Fellowship report celebrated emerging leaders gaining unique educational experiences nationwide.<br /><br />Lastly, the session concluded with appreciation for committee chairs’ volunteerism and the announcement of the 2024-2025 AANA leadership slate, affirming the organization’s strong future. The overall tone was positive and forward-looking, focusing on mentorship, innovation, and inclusivity to advance orthopedic surgery as a more diverse and patient-centered specialty.

Asset Caption

Moderators: Rachel M. Frank, M.D., John M. Tokish, M.D., FAANA

Keywords

AANA meeting

Diversity in orthopedic surgery

Inclusivity

Women orthopedic surgeons

Mentorship

Family support

Ethnicity representation

Gender representation

Leadership awards

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery

Resident and fellow achievements