The AOA presents two annual Awards to renowned orthopaedic surgeon leaders for special recognition. These are presented at the AOA Annual Leadership Meeting.
Distinguished Clinician Educator Award
The AOA Distinguished Clinician Educator (DCE) Award recognizes an AOA member as an exceptional orthopaedic clinician educator. The award emphasizes the critical role that clinician educators play within academic health centers, where state-of-the-art educational programs demand faculty time devoted to training medical students, graduate students, residents and other health professionals. View the DCE Hall of Fame.
Distinguished Contributions to Orthopaedics Award
The AOA Distinguished Contributions to Orthopaedics (DCO) Award recognizes an AOA member’s personal achievement, commitment to excellence, meritorious leadership, and substantial contributions influencing the orthopaedic specialty. View the DCO Hall of Fame.
Nominate a Candidate
Nominations for the 2025 Distinguished Contributions to Orthopaedics Award and the Distinguished Clinician Educator Award are being accepted through December 20, 2024. Nominate your candidate today!