About us

Modifying the definition of an orthopedic student

Distance Traveled spawned from the success of several Perry Initiative programs run locally by one of the program's founders.

Goals and Objectives

Reaching more URiM interested in a career in orthopedic surgery

Persistence

The lack of women in orthopedic surgery had been successfully targeted via the of the Perry Initiative pipeline program, increasing the number of female residents in orthopedic surgery from 11% to 18% over 14 years.

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Continuous Learning

With Distance Traveled, we apply the principle of early exposure to musculoskeletal education from orthopedic surgeons within the marginalized group to those traditionally underrepresented in medicine (URiM), specifically orthopedic surgery.

Watch RJOS' How Far We've Come video

“We’re an ambitious team with an important purpose.”

Dr Christen Russo, Founder, Distance Traveled

Distance Traveled is piloting this program in the New York City Charter School System, mainly comprising URiM individuals.

In addition, faculty and residents from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery of Columbia University and NewYork-Presbyterian/Brooklyn Methodist Hospital are volunteering their time to ensure the program's success.

Why was Distance Traveled created?

Distance Traveled workshops are geared toward those under-represented in medicine (URiM), and more specifically to those under-represented in orthopedic surgery. We know that early exposure to orthopedics for anyone is a crucial driver for students to explore a career in orthopedics. Our goal is to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion in orthopedic surgery by exposing orthopedic

surgery to those who may not have early opportunities (such as vis a vis a parent/family member). We acknowledge the "Distance Traveled” to Orthopedics, including the obstacles along the way. We also recognize the importance of the journey, including the mentorships, networking, and connections made during the journey.