OTA Keystone Honor

Recognizing the profound impact that many individuals within the OTA have had on shaping careers and lives, we are establishing the “OTA Keystone Honor” as a way for mentees to honor the life-changing contributions of their mentors. This initiative provides a meaningful platform to express gratitude, celebrate the guidance and support that have defined countless professional journeys, and further the legacy of those who have served as keystones in advancing the field. Through this recognition, we aim to solidify the lasting influence of these mentors while supporting continued growth and excellence of the OTA.

Recipients of this honor can be described as the “keystone” of their profession, not only for their groundbreaking advancements but also for their pivotal role in mentoring and shaping the careers of others. Like a keystone that holds an arch together, they have provided essential support and guidance to the next generation of surgeons, ensuring the continuity and growth of the field. Their influence extends beyond their own achievements, creating a lasting impact through the success and development of those they have mentored.

For more information about the OTA Keystone Honor nomination process click here.

To nominate your mentor, click here.

Learn more about OTA Keystone Honor Awardees and Nominees below.

OTA Keystone Honor Awardees

Emil Schemitsch, MD, FIOTA

Learn About Emil Schemitsch, MD, FIOTA

OTA Keystone Honor Nominees

Ramon B. Gustilo, MD, FIOTA (deceased)

Dr. David Templeman and Dr. Richard Kyle nominate Dr. Ramon Gustilo
The roots of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association were planted during a lunchtime conversation between Drs. Gustilo, Bovill, and Chapman. Serving as the first OTA President in 1983 and 1984, Dr. Gustilo was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know and work with him. His energy and inquisitiveness were infectious and his contributions to the advancement of orthopedic care immeasurable. Dr. Gustilo devoted his life to improving the lives of others and his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of medical professionals.

Please join Drs. Templeman and Kyle and add your philanthropic support to the nomination of Dr. Ramon Gustilo

Make a donation in honor of
Dr. Gustilo

Roy Sanders, MD

Dr. Brian Mullis nominates Dr. Roy Sanders

Dr. Sanders is a pillar in the OTA and has influenced generations of Orthopaedic Trauma surgeons. He is Professor and Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of South Florida (USF), and President of Florida Orthopaedic Institute (FOI), a group he helped found. Dr. Sanders attended medical school at New York University School of Medicine in New York City, and performed his residency at the Hospital for Joint Diseases Orthopaedic Institute, also in New York City, graduating in 1985. Dr. Sanders received fellowship training in musculoskeletal trauma at Vanderbilt University Medical School, and then went on to obtain the AO/ASIF Jack McDaniels Memorial Trauma Fellowship, which he completed under the direction of Thomas Ruedi, M.D. in Chur, Switzerland. Upon his return, he spent several months with Sigvard Hansen as a foot and ankle fellow at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. Dr. Sanders is a Past President of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (2004-5) and in his clinical role, is Chief of the Department of Orthopaedics at Tampa General Hospital.

Please join Dr. Mullis and add your philanthropic support to the nomination of Dr. Roy Sanders

Make a donation in honor of
Dr. Sanders

Michael Chapman, MD

Drs. Olson, Bray, Leighton, Templeman and Pollak nominate Dr. Michael Chapman

Michael W. Chapman is one of three Orthopaedic Surgeons (Ray Gustilo, Edwin Bovill, and Mike) who envisioned the need to establish an organization to enable a collaborative environment to discuss the problems with delivering trauma care, and they established the Orthopaedic Trauma Center Study Group in 1978. In 1979, Mike Chapman moved to Sacramento to become Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UC Davis Medical Center.

To qualify for membership in COMSS, it was necessary for OTA to incorporate as a not-for-profit corporation with its own by-laws. Dr. Chapman oversaw the creation of the initial by-laws and the new title "The Orthopaedic Trauma Association" was officially adopted in 1985. As a founding member of the OTA, Mike served as President in 1985-86.

During his tenure as Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery Mike modernized fracture care in Sacramento. He established an Orthopaedic Trauma Fellowship which continues to this day. Mike was instrumental in introducing the inter-locking intra-medullary nailing and was one of the early adopters of an all-titanium implant system.

Mike Chapman’s career represents many aspects of Orthopaedic Traumatology, Clinician, Academician, Researcher, Administrator, and Leader. His career is an inspiring journey with aspects that touch every OTA member and orthopaedic trauma patient. We believe Michael W Chapman richly deserves this Keystone Honor.

Please join Drs. Steven Olson, Timothy Bray, Ross Leighton, David Templeman, and Andrew Pollak and add your philanthropic support to the nomination of Dr. Michael Chapman.

MAKE A DONATION IN HONOR OF
DR. CHAPMAN