Andrew J. Weiland, M.D., an attending orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery, has been honored with the 2015 William W. Tipton, Jr., M.D., Leadership Award by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
According to AAOS, the “Tipton Leadership Award recognizes Academy members who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities that have benefitted the orthopaedic community, patients, and/or the American public. The award honors and celebrates the life, accomplishments and qualities of the late William W. Tipton, Jr., M.D., an orthopaedic surgeon, educator and former AAOS chief executive officer.”
Dr. Weiland is professor of orthopedic surgery and professor of surgery (plastic) at the Weill Cornell Medical College. He has been a visiting professor in almost all 50 states, has taught hand and microvascular surgery to fellows and residents for nearly 40 years, and has authored more than 250 research studies.
While at the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS), Dr. Weiland was directly involved in the creation of a Subspecialty Certification in Hand Surgery, a first for orthopedic surgery, requiring the collaboration of three boards: ABOS, the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and the American Board of Surgery.
“Dr. Weiland’s diplomacy was a key ingredient in making this happen, ” said Peter J. Stern, M.D., the Norman S. and Elizabeth C.A. Hill professor and past chairman of orthopedic surgery at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, in the March 26, 2015 news release. “He understands the importance of respect for dissenting opinions, building consensus through open discussions, listening and acknowledging the concerns of others, and being inclusive rather than exclusive.”
Most recently, his residents, fellows and colleagues established the Weiland Medal (within ASSH) to annually recognize a mid-career scientist who has made substantive contributions to hand surgery.
Asked what this award means to him, Dr. Weiland told OTW, “It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by AAOS for my contributions to orthopaedic surgery. My love and passion for our specialty is what has motivated me in addition to the privilege of having worked with outstanding individuals in the various organizations that I have been involved with. During my service with the Academy, I worked closely with Bill Tipton while I was on the council of education and treasurer and had the highest respect for his leadership skills and cherished his friendship.”
As for what leadership experience he is most proud of, Dr. Weiland stated, “The leadership experience I am most proud of is working with residents and fellows over the last 40 years and playing some part in instilling in them the passion I have for our specialty. There is no greater satisfaction then seeing one of your students contribute to orthopaedics and become a leader in our field.”
