Gerald R. Williams, Jr., MD, becomes president of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Dr. Williams is a member of the Shoulder and Elbow Center at the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute and the John M. Fenlin, Jr., MD, Professor of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry at Ursinus College in Collegeville, Pa., and a medical degree, with honors, from the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed an internship and residency in orthopaedic surgery and a fellowship in shoulder surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas.

Dr. Williams previously served in several leadership roles for AAOS, including a two-year term on the Board of Directors, chair of the Continuing Medical Education Courses Committee, and a position on the Shoulder and Elbow Evaluation Committee.

Active in more than a dozen professional societies and councils, Dr. Williams also served as a past president of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the Philadelphia Orthopaedic Society and the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society. He also is co-founder and former president of the Mid-Atlantic Shoulder and Elbow Society.

“I have had the pleasure of getting to know and work alongside Dr. Williams in the Academy leadership line these past few years,” said David D. Teuscher, MD, outgoing Academy President. “Jerry is an influential educator, leader and role model. He is a natural problem-solver and consensus-builder.”

“It is an honor to be stepping into the role of president ahead of such an exciting year in the history of the Academy,” said Dr. Williams. “While medicine is facing several unique challenges, opportunities continue to surface. I look forward to working alongside the many dedicated volunteers who continue to ensure the AAOS brand provides value for our 39,000 members.”

Dr. Williams and his wife Robin have two children, Mark and Alexis.