WVU Orthopaedics hosted a reception for past residents and fellows

The WVU School of Medicine Department of Orthopaedics welcomed past residents and fellows to a special reception held March 4 at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, during the 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

During the reception, Matthew Dietz, M.D., Orthopaedics chairman and professor, shared updates on the department and their vision for the future. Former residents in attendance included Samir Patel, M.D., whose recent gift endowed the Pillars of Orthopaedic Education Fund, which is dedicated to resident education.

The evening was sponsored in part by former School of Medicine resident Jesse Lewis, M.D. and his wife, Carley; Manu Aggarwal, M.D.; Dr. Patel's wife and WVU School of Medicine alumni.

Faculty, alumni residents and six current WVU residents attended the reception. Current WVU residents include: Kuba Ratkowski, Jennafir Ernst, Caitlyn Patton, Vincent Morrow, John Pisquiy and Brody Fitzpatrick. They all presented and participated in the annual meeting.