The J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society 2025 Award Recipients

Charles H. Epps, Jr., MD

JRGOS Augustus A. White, III, MD, PhD Founders Award

This prestigious honor is presented to a distinguished member of the J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the field of Orthopaedic Surgery. This award recognizes the recipient’s exceptional contributions to advancing culturally sensitive musculoskeletal care while promoting diversity within Orthopaedics and exemplifying an unswerving commitment to excellence in the field.

Carol Morris, MD

JRGOS Claudia L. Thomas, MD Award

This award honors Dr. Claudia L. Thomas who is the first African American woman to become an ABOS certified Orthopaedic surgeon. The recipient of this award demonstrates tenacity, resilience, and grit in the pursuit of excellence in the field. In the spirit of Dr. Thomas’ contributions they also lead by example and are well respected and valued among the Orthopaedic surgery community.

Linda Suleiman , MD

JRGOS Presidents Health Equity & Diversity Award

The Presidents Health Equity & Diversity award reflects the ethos and achievement of past, present, and future JRGOS Presidents. The recipient of this award emphasizes leadership in Orthopaedic Surgery, advancement of culturally sensitive care, a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, educational impact, clinical and academic excellence, innovation in Orthopaedic practices, service, and humanitarian contributions.

Erica Taylor, MD, MBA

JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award

The Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award is presented to those who embody the characteristics of Dr. Alvin H. Crawford, a distinguished Orthopaedic surgeon, seasoned clinician, dedicated teacher and devoted scientist. For many years Dr. Crawford tirelessly guided students, residents, and fellows on the road to careers as successful Orthopaedic surgeons.

Campbell Clinic

JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Institutional Partner Award

The JRGOS Institutional Partner Award recognizes an orthopaedic institution that exemplifies a dynamic network of leaders dedicated to advancing orthopaedic surgery through education, collaboration, innovation, and mentorship. This esteemed partner has played a pivotal role in shaping the past and continues to shape the future of orthopaedics by empowering learners, fostering professional growth, enhancing resident education, and driving excellence in orthopaedic care for all.

Ramon L. Jimenez, MD

JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, Excellence in Collaboration Award

The JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award honors an orthopaedic surgeon who has demonstrated a commitment to advancing the field through exemplary leadership and collaboration. This individual has set a standard of excellence by fostering partnerships among professionals and organizations, ensuring a lasting impact on the future of orthopaedic surgery.

Congratulations to the 2025 JRGOS Award Recipients! They were honored during the JRGOS Annual Awards Luncheon in San Diego on March 13, 2025.

JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award