April 22, 2026
Photo by Ben Stewart
Ross Zafonte, executive vice dean of the University of Missouri School of Medicine and professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, was recently elected to the Association of American Physicians, one of the highest distinctions in academic medicine.
Established in 1885, the AAP is an honorific, elected society of America’s leading physician-scientists who exemplify the pinnacle of pioneering and enduring, impactful contributions to improve health. Election reflects not only scholarly excellence, but also a strong commitment to innovation, collaboration and impact.
Zafonte is only the second physician at Mizzou to hold the honor, joining Richard J. Barohn, executive vice chancellor for health affairs and Hugh E. and Sarah D. Stephenson dean of the School of Medicine. Barohn was elected to the society in 2018.
Zafonte’s selection underscores the growing national influence of the School of Medicine’s research enterprise and its mission to translate discovery into better care for patients and communities.
“Being elected to the Association of American Physicians is an extraordinary honor,” Zafonte said. “I am grateful to my colleagues and mentors who have supported my work throughout my career. This recognition reinforces my commitment to advancing research and clinical innovation that meaningfully improves the lives of patients affected by brain injury and complex neurological conditions.”
AAP membership is highly selective, limited to approximately 70 new members annually from a global pool of accomplished physician-scientists. With more than 1,900 active members and hundreds of emeritus and honorary members, the organization represents a powerful collective of leaders shaping the future of medicine. Zafonte’s election reflects both his pioneering contributions and Missouri’s continued momentum in advancing transformative health research.
