The J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society 2026 Award Recipients
The J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society 2026 Award Recipients
The J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society announces the 2026 Award Recipients, which will be given at the 2026 Annual Awards Luncheon, Symposiums, Research Competition, and Guest Reception on March 5, 2026, in New Orleans, Louisiana. These awards recognize outstanding contributions in leadership, mentorship, research, and service in the field of orthopaedic surgery.
JRGOS Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award Recipient
Melvyn A. Harrington, Jr., MD
The Alvin H. Crawford, MD Mentorship Award is presented to those who embody the characteristics of Dr. Crawford, a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon, seasoned clinician, dedicated teacher and devoted scientist.
JRGOS Claudia L. Thomas, MD Award Recipient
Toni M. McLaurin, MD
The JRGOS Claudia Lynn Thomas, MD Award honors Dr. Thomas who is the first African American woman to become an orthopaedic surgeon in the United States and the first African American woman certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. The recipient of this award demonstrates tenacity, resilience, and grit in the pursuit of excellence in the field.
JRGOS Presidents Health Equity Award Recipient
Selina C. Poon, MD, MPH
The Presidents Health Equity 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 inclusivity, educational impact, clinical and academic excellence, innovation in orthopaedic practices, service, and humanitarian contributions.
JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award Recipient
Rinelda M. Horton, MD
The JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award honors an orthopaedic surgeon or member of the orthopaedic community 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.
JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award Recipient
Timothy S. Johnson, MD
The JRGOS Excellence in Collaboration Award honors an orthopaedic surgeon or member of the orthopaedic community 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.
JRGOS Augustus A. White, III, MD, PhD Founders Award Recipient
Randall C. Morgan, Jr., MD, MBA
The Augustus A. White, III, MD, PhD Founders Award is a prestigious honor 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 inclusion in orthopaedics and exemplifying an unswerving commitment to excellence in the field.
JRGOS Institutional Partner Award Recipient
The Rothman Orthopaedic Institute
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.
Congratulations to the 2026 JRGOS Award Recipients! They will be honored during the JRGOS Annual Awards Luncheon in New Orleans on March 5, 2026.
Please register for the 2026 Annual Awards Luncheon, MedTech Symposium, Orthopaedic Life Symposium, Resident & Medical Student Research Competition, & JRGOS Guest Reception.
