I was an Orthopedic Spine Fellow in 1995. At the time NASS was in a distinct period of transition-moving rapidly from its “fledging” roots toward the modern multi-disciplinary organization it is today. I was excited about the shift from a young group of interested clinicians into an established authority in spine care. I was eager to hear more on how NASS focused on the intentional inclusion of a wide array of specialists. I also liked the development of formal clinical guidelines. I finished my fellowship in 1996 which was the year that NASS produced their first webpage. The combination of an engaging, all-inclusive organization with its eye to the future by preparing for the digital age convinced me to become a member of NASS. That same vibrant, ambitious organization has helped me to grow throughout my professional career and has helped to guide me in caring for my patients.

I am incredibly proud to serve as a Director for the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). Having dedicated my career to advancing spine care, the opportunity to contribute to the Board—overseeing the standards, certification, and professional development of orthopaedic surgeons—has been the culmination of my work. It is an honor to help ensure that the future of our profession remains grounded in rigorous, ethical, and high-quality assessment, ultimately strengthening the care we provide to our patients nationwide.

When I first entered private practice after fellowship, I had the tremendous good fortune of joining an orthopedic group with an established spine surgeon. John O. Grimm, MD was, has been, and always will be the greatest mentor anyone could hope for. He is an exceptional human being—humble, intelligent, honest, hardworking, loyal, and a fierce advocate for his patients. My advice to any new graduate is to look closely at the culture of the practice they plan to join before signing on the dotted line. In today’s environment, having a mentor who has been through the challenges, who will stand beside you during difficult moments, and who will help you build your practice is invaluable. John and I have been close friends for more than thirty years, and the best way I can honor what he gave me is to pay it forward by being a mentor myself.