University Orthopedics names Dr. Julia Katarincic president

University Orthopedics has named Dr. Julia A. Katarincic president, while also elevating her to top orthopedic leadership roles at Brown University Health and Brown University’s medical school. She succeeds Dr. Edward Akelman, who will stay on as a physician as the practice continues its physician-led transition.

Why it matters: - Dr. Julia A. Katarincic now leads one of the region's major orthopedic practices at a time when physician leadership, education and specialty care remain central to the group's identity. - The move also aligns leadership across University Orthopedics, Brown University Health and The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. - Dr. Edward Akelman remains with University Orthopedics as a physician, preserving continuity for patients.

What happened: - University Orthopedics named Dr. Julia A. Katarincic president. - Dr. Katarincic was also appointed Chief of Orthopedics for Brown University Health and Chair of the Department of Orthopaedics at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. - The transition was announced July 9, 2026, in East Providence, Rhode Island. - Dr. Katarincic succeeds Dr. Edward Akelman, who had held those leadership posts over the past decade.

The details: - Dr. Katarincic is a nationally recognized hand surgeon and physician leader. - She previously led the practice's Hand and Wrist Center. - Dr. Katarincic also chaired University Orthopedics' Operations Committee and served on its Executive Committee. - She has won multiple Teacher of the Year awards for mentoring orthopedic surgeons in training. - Michelle R. DeRoche, chief operating officer at University Orthopedics, said Dr. Katarincic's collaborative leadership style and decision-making make her well positioned to guide the organization. - During Dr. Akelman's tenure, University Orthopedics expanded into Massachusetts. - The practice also recruited additional physicians and advanced practice providers and broadened its specialty orthopedic services. - Dr. Akelman will continue seeing patients at University Orthopedics.

Between the lines: - The leadership change appears designed to reward an internal leader who already knows the organization's operations, culture and academic partnerships. - Keeping Dr. Akelman in patient care suggests University Orthopedics wants a smooth transition without disrupting clinical operations. - The emphasis on research, education and innovation signals that the practice sees itself as more than a clinical network.

What's next: - Dr. Katarincic is expected to build on University Orthopedics' regional expansion and physician recruitment. - The practice says she will continue advancing patient care, education, research and innovation across the region. - University Orthopedics is signaling continuity in its physician-led model as the new leadership takes over.

The bottom line: - University Orthopedics is handing leadership to a long-time insider with deep clinical and academic ties, while retaining its outgoing president in patient care to keep the transition steady.