2026 JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award

The J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society announces Melvyn A. Harrington, Jr., MD as the recipient of the 2026 JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award. The 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.

Melvyn A. Harrington, Jr., MD the 2026 JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Award Recipient

Dr. Harrington is Professor, Residency Program Director, Adult Reconstruction Fellowship Director, and Vice Chair for Community Engagement in the Joseph Barnhart Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. His career is defined by exceptional mentorship, leadership, and service.

Dr. Harrington is a past President and current Board Member of the J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society and a founding mentor with Nth Dimensions. His enduring commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and advancing musculoskeletal health equity embodies the legacy of the JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award. Dr. Harrington is widely respected for his impact on education and training.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Harrington earned his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University in Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, followed by his medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at UC Davis Medical Center and an Adult Reconstruction fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital under Dr. William H. Harris—training experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to excellence and mentorship.

Dr. Harrington began his career in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation at Loyola Stritch School of Medicine, where he served from 1999-2007. He joined Baylor College of Medicine in 2007 and was appointed Residency Program Director in 2010. In 2018, he assumed additional roles as Adult Reconstruction Fellowship Director and Vice Chair for Inclusion and Community Engagement. In these leadership positions, he has mentored countless medical students and residents, fostering a culture of accountability, support, and professional growth.

A graduate of the AAOS Leadership Fellows Program, Dr. Harrington has served in numerous national leadership roles, including the American Orthopaedic Association, ACGME Review Committee for Orthopaedic Surgery, and the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. His enduring commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and advancing musculoskeletal health equity embodies the legacy of the JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award.