I’m probably most proud of the educational aspects of my career. I served as residency program director while I was in the Army and have remained active in med student and resident education while at University of Missouri. We re-established the spine surgery fellowship at Mizzou 11 years ago, and I have remained fellowship director since then. I have also found it quite enriching while serving on multiple committees for NASS over the years.

Volunteer! NASS has opportunities to get involved in education, service, advocacy, policy, and professional development. You will meet colleagues and develop relationships that will make you look forward to meetings/events. You may even develop a cadre who can provide continued advice, education, and support for each other as you go through your practice over the years.

I was initially drawn to NASS membership as a spine fellow. I was eager to join the community of spine care givers, and NASS offered this opportunity. Although I belong to other professional societies of spine surgeons, NASS represented the only opportunity that included nonoperative spine specialists as well. This seemed to me a natural association as it represents the reality of multidisciplinary spine care.