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Orthopaedic Surgery October 09, 2025

 

John S. Gould, M.D.

In April 2025, the UAB Board of Trustees approved the establishment of the John S. Gould, M.D. and Sheryl H. Gould Endowed Support Fund, designed to support the educational mission of UAB’s Hand and Upper Extremity Fellowship. The fund, created in memory of Dr. John Gould by his wife Sheryl, ensures that future fellows have access to expanded opportunities that drive excellence and innovation in hand surgery.

Gould joined UAB in 1975 as Alabama’s first formally trained orthopaedic hand surgeon, recruiting talent, treating patients, and founding a legacy that would shape generations of trainees. After a stint away, he returned to UAB in 2006 as Chief of the Foot and Ankle Section. In 2014, his contributions were honored with the status of Professor Emeritus.

Originally, Sheryl Gould began by making annual gifts to support fellows’ travel and education. Realizing the value of a lasting endowment, she transformed her vision into the dedicated fund that will underwrite key experiences such as microsurgery courses, conference travel, visiting distinguished lecturers, and collaborative scholarly exchange.

“John believed deeply in the power of education and mentorship,” Sheryl said. “I know he would be proud to see this fund helping young surgeons grow into leaders. This isn’t just about honoring his legacy; it’s about continuing the work he cared so deeply about.”

This endowed support fund aligns with UAB’s commitment to fostering clinical excellence, mentorship, and scholarly growth. As new fellows embark on their surgical careers, Gould’s legacy continues, not only in name, but through every hand repaired, every nerve reconstructed, and every prudent gift that advances education and service.

“This endowment honors a pioneer in hand surgery and gives our fellows the chance to pursue the same level of excellence that Dr. Gould embodied,” said Steven M. Theiss, M.D., chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “We’re incredibly grateful for Sheryl’s generosity. It’s an investment in the next generation of surgical leaders.”

To learn more about supporting the John S. Gould, M.D. and Sheryl H. Gould Endowed Support Fund: click here.

 

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