Paul Arnold, MD has been a NASS member since 1998. He is Professor of Neurosurgery at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and has devoted nearly three decades to advancing spine care through clinical practice, scholarship, and service to the Society. Throughout his career, he has played a leading role in shaping NASS policies, ethics, clinical guidelines, and scientific publications.

“Dr. Arnold is the consummate professional,” said Peter Passias, MD, Chair of NASS’ Governance Committee. “He has contributed to numerous meaningful scientific and clinical advancements during the course of his career. As a close colleague and a personal friend, I am happy to see him receive this recognition and look forward to following his continued dedication to our Society and advancing spine care.”

Dr. Arnold has served in numerous leadership roles within NASS, including 14 years on the Committee on Ethics & Professionalism, six of those as Chair, while simultaneously serving on the Board of Directors. He has also served on the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee, Finance Committee, Audit Committee, Professional Compliance Panel, and numerous other committees. In addition, he served on the editorial board of The Spine Journal, including three years as deputy editor, and has contributed extensively as an abstract reviewer, guideline author, and educator. His decades of dedicated leadership and service exemplify the spirit of the David O. Selby Award.

All awards will be presented to winners during an awards ceremony at the NASS 2026 Annual Meeting in San Antonio, TX on October 15, 2026. If you would like to read more about this year’s winners, or nominate a colleague for 2027 awards, please visit www.spine.org/awards.