AOA-Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)
 

The AOA’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) identifies orthopaedists who are developing as leaders of the specialty and gives them a glimpse of AOA membership through interaction with orthopaedic leaders. Through exposure to AOA members and AOA programs, Emerging Leaders grow their leadership skills in hopes of continuing to give back to the specialty and society. Identification for participation in the ELP is a mark of prestige. Those who join the ELP are among a highly select group of orthopaedists who are poised to impact the specialty now and in the future. 

Benefits of participation

- Opportunity to participate in the Emerging Leaders Forum.

- Access to AOA functions such as the AOA’s Annual Meeting

- Opportunity to submit a scientific abstract to be presented at the AOA’s Annual Meeting – a great opportunity to demonstrate orthopaedic thought leadership )

- A chance to sit on AOA committees in an ex-officio capacity 
 

Eligibility

- Emerging Leaders may only join ELP between PGY-5 and their fifth year in clinical practice.

- Those who were nominated for AOA membership but did not attain it are encouraged to join the ELP

- Applicants must submit a written recommendation from a current, active AOA member, unless they are:

   - Resident Leadership Forum nominees

   - AAOS/OREF/ORS Clinician Scientist Development Program nominees

   - American and Canadian AOA Leadership Fellowship (ABC, ASG, JOA and NATF) participants or applicants

Download an application.  
 

To remain in the Program, Emerging Leaders must:

- Attend one AOA program every three years 

- Submit one abstract for poster presentation every three years 

- Pay their dues. (Dues for residents and fellows are waived)

Dues
$100 per year. Dues cover a portion of the administrative and program costs. Residents and fellowship participants do not have to pay dues.

For more information about joining the program, contact AOA at (847) 318-7330 or info@aoassn.org.