Regis O’Keefe, MD, PhD, FAOA
Chair – Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Fred C. Reynolds Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery Division of Musculoskeletal Oncology
Washington University
“I am a huge supporter of the APEX program and recognize the many benefits it provides to participants. The faculty we’ve sent to the APEX have been very positive about their experiences, and we have observed the way that the program has enhanced their leadership activities, and approaches to team building, communication, and collaboration. Most importantly, participants have gained an increased appreciation for individual differences and are more open to differing viewpoints and perspectives. The investment of time and resources has resulted in stronger faculty members and a more effective department.
“While the curriculum is important, one of the main benefits of the APEX program is the opportunity to connect with a group of peers that are like-minded in their desire to lead and transform the future of orthopaedics. Participants learn to appreciate the individual differences in a diverse group of like-minded peers. Group members support each other in their journey as they progress in building leadership skills, attitudes, and attributes.
“Washington University Medical Center is committed to developing our faculty, and we have been sending two people each year to the AOA|USC APEX Leadership Certificate Program. We solicit applications for the APEX program from faculty members, who share a brief statement about why they wish to attend the course. This investment in our faculty strengthens the department and improves our team’s ability to perform at the highest level in clinical care, education, and research.
“Several years ago our department launched a multi-pronged leadership program for residents, fellows, and faculty at Washington University Medical Center, entitled Leadership for Achievement. This program provides instruction on leadership and business education on topics such as building teams, giving and receiving feedback, and having difficult conversations. Next year, APEX attendees will facilitate portions of our program to continue sharing leadership lessons with their colleagues.
“The path to leadership is constantly evolving. The peer relationships developed and lessons learned through APEX provide leaders with the resources needed to improve the future of orthopaedics.”