As we enter the holiday season and approach the end of the year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your dedication, passion, and hard work throughout 2024. This year has been remarkable—filled with groundbreaking research, exceptional patient care, and educational achievements—all made possible by your invaluable contributions.

Today marks the 100th anniversary of Duke University's founding. On this day in 1924, James B. Duke signed the Indenture of Trust that established the University.

As we commemorate this milestone, our department has been working diligently on a strategic plan that sets an exciting course for our future. Combined with various institutional initiatives, these efforts propel us toward a strong trajectory for Duke's next century.

In the coming days and months, you can expect to learn about developments in Duke Health that will further solidify this promising path.

Please join me in congratulating Tyler Pidgeon, MD, on his appointment as Clinical Associate Vice Chair and Sean Ryan, MD, on his new role as Director of the Clinical Research Unit (CRU). Their leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of clinical research and strengthening the infrastructure that supports our department's work.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I encourage you to join me in reflecting on all we have to be thankful for.

While it’s easy to focus on the challenges we face—whether nuisances in our day-to-day work, broader issues at Duke and in healthcare, or societal concerns—there remains so much to be grateful for.

Please join me in congratulating Alison P. Toth, MD, on her appointment as the Duke University Health System Surgeon-in-Chief! Dr. Toth was selected for this role following an extensive search process. This position will oversee the entire Duke Heath System operative platform.

This Veterans Day, I invite you to join me in honoring the men and women who have served—and continue to serve—in our military. They demonstrate an unwavering dedication to defending our freedoms.

Today, we also extend our deepest gratitude to the medical professionals who tirelessly care for and heal our veterans, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

This November, the Duke Orthopaedic Surgery Department proudly honors Native American Heritage Month. This celebration recognizes the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Native American communities. We are especially proud to highlight members of our department who represent Native American heritage, including Dr. Mike Bolognesi, a member of the Lumbee Tribe.

Each of us plays a vital role in shaping our future. By exercising your right to vote, you’re not just choosing leaders—you’re advocating for better healthcare policies, stronger communities, and a brighter tomorrow.

At Duke Orthopaedics, our mission is to transform lives, and that commitment extends to our participation in the democratic process.

Please join me in celebrating Medical Assistants Week. Our department has a dedicated group of Medical Assistants whose unwavering commitment to care makes a difference every day. The theme for this year's celebration, chosen by the American Association of Medical Assistants, is "Bridging the Gap between Patients and Quality Care"—a powerful reminder of their critical role in healthcare.

At Duke Orthopaedics, we recognize chiropractic care profoundly impacts health and wellness. Joint manipulation, a key component of chiropractic practice, has ancient roots. Evidence of its use dates to 1552 BC in the Edwin Smith papyrus, where Ancient Egyptians described treating bone-related injuries.