I am delighted to announce Dr. Marc Richard, MD, as our new Vice Chair of Faculty. Marc is an innovative hand surgeon who has made significant contributions to the field. He has held national leadership roles, directed our hand fellowship program, and is widely recognized for his expertise.
Marc completed his undergraduate studies at Stanford University, graduated from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, and completed his orthopaedic training at Boston University Medical Center. He then completed his fellowship training in Hand Surgery here at Duke, where he has since remained on our faculty. His academic work spans a variety of impactful studies, including research on scaphoid nonunion, novel imaging techniques for distal radius fractures, the reliability of wrist arthroscopy in diagnosing and treating triangular fibrocartilage complex tears, biomechanical analyses of elbow injuries in professional athletes, and more. Additionally, his research on healthcare disparities, cost-effectiveness analyses, and the influence of social media on medical education further underscores his commitment to advancing the field.
Dr. Richard’s commitment to improving surgical outcomes, reducing low-value care, and advancing patient-centered treatment strategies has positioned him as a leader in the evolution of hand surgery. In his new role as Vice Chair of Faculty, Marc will oversee faculty development, professionalism, and advancement. This includes managing faculty leadership programs, addressing professionalism concerns, promoting wellness and inclusion, and overseeing the faculty appointments, promotions, and tenure (APT) process. He will also collaborate closely with department leadership and external bodies to ensure equity, well-being, and a positive work environment for all faculty.
Marc’s extensive experience in leadership roles within the fellowship and at national organizations highlights his strong commitment to faculty support, leadership, and communication. These qualities make him exceptionally well-suited for this role.
I also want to express our deep gratitude to Dr. Alison Toth, MD, who has done an outstanding job as our inaugural Vice Chair of Faculty. She will assist Marc in transitioning into this new role as she assumes Duke’s Surgeon-in-Chief position. A special thank you to the search committee members—Samuel Adams, MD; Anna Brodeur; Warren Hammert, MD; Tiffany Hilton, PhD; Barb Hooper, PhD; John McCall; Amy McNulty, PhD; Steven Olson, MD; Douglas Orndorff, MD; Dara Purvis, MHA; and, Erica Taylor, MD—for their dedication throughout this process.
Please join me in congratulating Marc on his new role and thanking Alison for her exceptional service and leadership over the past years.
All the best,
Ben
Benjamin A. Alman, MD, FRCSC
James R. Urbaniak Professor
Chair, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery