The University of Utah Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) is proud to announce that Stuart E. Willick, MD, FAAPMR, a faculty member and sports medicine physician at the University of Utah Orthopaedic Center, has been honored with the 2024 PASSOR Legacy Award and Lectureship by the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R).
This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Willick’s outstanding contributions to the field of sports medicine, rehabilitation, and disability advocacy, and highlights his unwavering dedication to improving care for athletes, including those with disabilities.
Dr. Willick has been a vital member of the University of Utah community, contributing significantly to both the Department of PM&R and the field of sports medicine. He has built a distinguished career in sports medicine, focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and exercise approaches for athletes at all levels. As the program director for the multi-disciplinary Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Utah, Dr. Willick plays an integral role in training the next generation of sports medicine specialists.
His clinical expertise extends to his leadership as the head team physician for the national champion University of Utah Ski Team, as well as his role as medical director of the Snowbird Ski Clinic. Dr. Willick has also been a key contributor to sports medicine on the global stage, serving as team physician for numerous high-profile teams, including the U.S. Ski and Snowboard teams, U.S. Speedskating, USA Climbing, and U.S. Bobsled and Skeleton, and has supported the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee at 11 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He has notably served as medical director for the International Paralympic Committee and looks forward to welcoming the world to Salt Lake City for the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Dr. Willick’s recognition with the 2024 PASSOR Legacy Award is a tremendous honor, and we are incredibly proud to have him as part of our department. His work not only advances the field of sports medicine but also emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation for athletes with disabilities. His commitment to both clinical excellence and athlete care has left a lasting impact on the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation, as well as on the global sporting community.
The PASSOR Legacy Award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of sports medicine, particularly in the rehabilitation of athletes with disabilities. Dr. Willick’s work in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and leadership in both academic and clinical settings is a testament to his exceptional impact on the profession.
The University of Utah Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation is committed to advancing research, education, and clinical care to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities, and we look forward to Dr. Willick’s continued leadership and contributions to the field.