AAOS Celebrates the 2026 Impact, Humanitarian, and Leadership Award Winners in Orthopaedics

Celebrating Excellence in Orthopaedics: The 2026 AAOS Awards

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) recently celebrated exceptional individuals in the field of orthopaedics through its 2026 awards ceremony. These prestigious awards recognize distinguished contributions and advancements in musculoskeletal care, focusing on both professional excellence and humanitarian work. Among the honored recipients are Erica D. Taylor, MD, MBA, FAAOS; Gregory M. Mundis Jr., MD, FAAOS; and Kristy L. Weber, MD, FAAOS, each of whom has made significant impacts in their areas of expertise.

Impact Award: Erica D. Taylor, MD, MBA, FAAOS

Erica D. Taylor, a board-certified orthopaedic hand surgeon at Duke Health, was bestowed the AAOS Impact Award for her commendable efforts in expanding orthopaedic care access. From a young age, Dr. Taylor was influenced by her family's dedication to education and sports, ultimately leading her to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery. Her roles at Duke Health include vice president of health equity and vice chair of culture, engagement, and impact within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, where she works rigorously to improve clinical operations and enhance patient access.

Dr. Taylor's commitment to mentorship and workforce development has inspired many aspiring surgeons. She founded a national leadership consortium aimed at equipping health professionals with the necessary skills to advance orthopaedic care, significantly influencing future healthcare delivery.

Humanitarian Award: Gregory M. Mundis Jr., MD, FAAOS

Recognized for his humanitarian achievements, Gregory M. Mundis Jr., MD, FAAOS, has dedicated his career to providing critical spine deformity care for children worldwide. As a professor of orthopaedic surgery at Scripps Clinic in San Diego and president of the San Diego Spine Foundation, Dr. Mundis has led medical missions in various regions, including Mexico and Africa, establishing sustainable treatment sites and mentoring local surgeons.

His commitment doesn't end with direct patient care; Dr. Mundis actively trains future leaders by involving clinical fellows in humanitarian missions, ensuring the continuation of impactful service in orthopaedics. His work is not only transformative for individual patients but also builds a legacy of compassion and commitment to equitable healthcare.

Leadership Award: Kristy L. Weber, MD, FAAOS

The 2026 William W. Tipton, Jr., MD, Leadership Award was awarded to Kristy L. Weber, MD, FAAOS, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to receive this honor. Dr. Weber has held numerous leadership roles, including her tenure as the first female president of the AAOS Board of Directors in 2019. Her contributions to governance reform and institutional leadership have been pivotal in driving positive changes within the orthopaedic community.

Dr. Weber's leadership extends beyond organisational duties as she champions diversity, mentorship, and environmental initiatives in medicine. Her efforts to promote the advancement of women in medicine and create inclusive opportunities for underrepresented groups reflect her dedication to improving not only orthopaedics but also the broader medical field.

Conclusion

AAOS President Wilford K. Gibson, MD, FAAOS, expressed pride in recognizing these trailblazers, remarking that their combined efforts exemplify the commitment to excellence and leadership in the orthopaedic specialty. The AAOS is devoted to advancing musculoskeletal health and education, ensuring that orthopaedic surgeons across the globe are equipped to provide the highest quality care.

In recognition of these exceptional individuals, AAOS continues to push forward in fostering an inclusive environment that promotes innovation, education, and unmatched patient care. As the world of orthopaedics evolves, the legacy built by the 2026 awardees serves as an inspiration for future generations.

For more insights into the 2026 AAOS award winners and their contributions to orthopaedics, please visit the AAOS website.