I am most proud of building a career that integrates complex clinical care, research, education, and quality improvement in spinal deformity. As Co-Chief of Spinal Deformity at Columbia and Director for Quality and Patient Safety for Och Spine, I have had the privilege of caring for children and adults with some of the most challenging spinal conditions while also working to make that care safer, more predictable, and more patient-centered. Academically, I am proud of contributing to work on alignment planning, patient-specific planning, optimization, and safety, including the Multi-Ethnic Alignment Normative Study and guidelines for level selection in adult thoracolumbar deformity surgery, as well as guidelines for treatment of osteoporosis in patients undergoing reconstructive spinal surgery. But the most rewarding part has been mentoring students, residents, fellows, and research trainees. Seeing the next generation develop confidence, ask better questions, and take ownership of improving spine care is one of the most significant accomplishments of my career.

NASS has played an important role in my growth as a spine surgeon, educator, researcher, and volunteer leader. What I have always valued about NASS is that it brings together people from many disciplines who are all focused on improving spine care. Through the Spinal Deformity Section, educational programming, webinars, and Annual Meeting activities, I have had the opportunity to learn from colleagues across the country, collaborate on important clinical questions, and contribute to discussions about where the field is heading. NASS has also helped me broaden my perspective beyond my own institution and subspecialty. It has reinforced the importance of evidence-based education, patient safety, value, innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Being selected for the inaugural DFNS class is especially meaningful because it reflects not only individual achievement, but also the value of sustained service to a professional community that has shaped so much of my career.

My advice is to start by showing up consistently, doing the work well, and looking for ways to be helpful. NASS offers many opportunities to contribute, but involvement usually grows from reliability, curiosity, and service. Volunteer for a section, committee, educational session, abstract review, webinar, or project, and then follow through. Over time, people remember those who are thoughtful, prepared, collegial, and willing to help without needing immediate recognition. I would also encourage members to bring their own perspective. NASS is strongest when it includes surgeons, nonoperative specialists, researchers, trainees, and allied professionals who see spine care through different lenses. Finally, do not wait until you feel completely established before getting involved. Professional societies are not only places to contribute once your career is fully formed; they are also places where your career can be shaped through mentorship, collaboration, and shared purpose.