Published: June 21, 2021

AAO-HNSF 2021 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience: Special Announcement: Honoring Our Best in the AAO-HNS Hall of Distinction

The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors voted to approve the formation of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery “Hall of Distinction” at their June meeting.


02 Hall Of Distinction LogoJames C. Denneny III, MD AAO-HNS/F Executive Vice President and CEO


The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors voted to approve the formation of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery “Hall of Distinction” at their June meeting. The first class of initiates will be presented at our 125th Annual Meeting & OTO Experience in Los Angeles, California, on Tuesday, October 5, followed by a reception. This concept was a culmination of an idea that started back in 2016 with the “Legends of Otolaryngology” lecture series at the Annual Meeting with the inaugural presentation by M. Eugene Tardy, MD

For over a year, our staff has been researching the past 25 years as we prepare to update our Century of Excellence book with Legacy of Excellence, which will be released at the Annual Meeting this fall. This work has unearthed many inspiring stories that reflect the dedication and commitment of both leaders and grassroots members over the decades of our existence. The success of our organization over the past 125 years fell squarely on the shoulders of hundreds of volunteer physician leaders and practitioners as well as the staff who helped them carry out their plans. Most of these devoted members worked primarily for the good of their patients, the specialty, and organization, often going unnoticed. Finally, discussions unrelated to the others highlighted the indisputable value and energy created by special recognition, such as the “Hall of Distinction.”

The “Hall of Distinction” will recognize otolaryngologists who have made long-term exceptional contributions to the AAO-HNS and the specialty of otolaryngology. Academicians, private practitioners, and researchers who have advanced the practice of otolaryngology and care of patients by distinguishing themselves through advocacy, education, humanitarianism, innovation, leadership, or research from around the world are eligible for consideration. Meritorious service includes elected and appointed leadership, committee and section participation as well as innovative education and clinical work and inspirational ideas with measurable impact. The “rank and file” member who donates 25 years or more can be honored as well as the high profile.

Candidates will have spent a minimum of 25 years in otolaryngology. Additionally, there will be a “Pioneer” category that will include posthumous recognition of giants in field, leading contributors of the organization, and other unique situations. A class will be initiated each year at the Annual Meeting accompanied by a lecture. This will be an exclusive and inclusive group with initiates being capped at 12 yearly with no minimum.

Candidates will be selected by the Awards Task Force (soon to be the Awards and Honors Committee) and approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. Individual nominations can be submitted to the Awards Task Force for consideration with supporting rationale. We anticipate this process will create a great deal of excitement and interest broadly across our field. 


More from July 2021 – Vol. 40, No. 6