AANA Emerging Leaders Fellowship

Learn From Leaders. Lead the Future. 

The AANA Emerging Leaders Fellowship is a one-year leadership experience for Orthopaedic Surgeons who are ready to become more involved in AANA. Through mentorship, executive coaching, practice visits and a capstone project, fellows gain the perspective, relationships and experience to prepare for future leadership. 

Applications Open: August 1, 2026 
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026 

 Apply Now 

This program is made possible by the generous support of Vericel. 

Why Apply? 

Leadership isn't learned from a textbook.

The Emerging Leaders Fellowship gives two AANA members direct access to experienced leaders who have helped shape the organization. Over the course of one year, fellows will gain new perspectives, build lasting relationships and learn how successful leaders approach practice, service and decision-making. 

The Four Pillars of the Fellowship 

Mentorship 

Be paired with a current or former AANA President or Board member who will share their experience through regular conversations and a two-day practice visit. Learn firsthand from someone who has helped lead AANA.  

Executive Coaching 

Work one-on-one with a professional executive coach throughout the fellowship. Coaching is tailored to your goals and includes a 360-degree assessment, helping strengthen communication, leadership and professional growth.  

An AANA Godfather 

A current or past AANA President will serve as your Godfather throughout the fellowship. 

Together, you'll visit four respected orthopaedic practices, learning how established leaders have built successful teams, navigated challenges and balanced clinical practice with leadership. The Godfather helps connect the lessons from each visit into one continuous learning experience.  

Capstone Leadership Project 

Develop a capstone project that strengthens your leadership skills while creating value for AANA members. Your Godfather will help shape the project, provide guidance throughout the year and support your presentation during the Emerging Leaders Session at the AANA Annual Meeting.  

What You'll Gain 

• Direct mentorship from experienced AANA leaders  

• Personalized executive coaching  

• Insight into successful leadership and practice culture  

• A stronger network across AANA  

• Practical leadership experience  

• Preparation for future leadership within AANA  

Is This Fellowship Right for You? 

Applicants must: 

• Be an AANA member in good standing  

• Have at least five years in clinical practice  

• Have previous AANA committee service  

• Demonstrate leadership experience  

• Have an interest in future leadership within AANA