SpineLine’s 20 Under 40: Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Class
For the ninth year, SpineLine is proud to recognize emerging leaders through its 20 Under 40 program. The initiative was designed to spotlight talented early-career professionals who are already shaping the future of spine care.
Since its launch, 20 Under 40 has become more than a CV line item. Past recipients have gone on to serve in leadership roles across NASS committees, editorial boards, and the NASS Board of Directors. For many, being named to their class was an inflection point that led to greater visibility, broader engagement with the Society, and a clearer trajectory into national leadership.
What 20 Under 40 Recognizes
The program honors individuals under the age of 40 who demonstrate:
- Meaningful professional impact within spine care
- A commitment to service, research, education, or advocacy
- Leadership potential that extends beyond their current role
Nominees come from across the spine field. Whether clinical, research, or academic, honorees are united by a shared pattern: they are already helping lead the field toward where it is headed next.
Why Apply (Or Nominate a Colleague)
Being named to SpineLine’s 20 Under 40 signals that an individual is someone the field should be paying attention to.
For honorees, the program offers:
- Elevated visibility within the NASS community and in SpineLine
- A platform that can precede deeper committee, editorial, and leadership involvement
- A peer cohort of similarly driven early-career leaders
The nomination and application process is open now: