Smita Mathews and Krista Armstrong Named 2025 President’s Award Winners
L to R: AAOE Incoming President Andrea Allyn, MBA, ATC; Krista Armstrong, Operations and Revenue Cycle Director, Advanced Orthopaedics; AAOE President Joseph Mathews, PT, DPT
L to R: Smita Mathews M.Sc. Zoology, M.Phil. Cell Biology, PTA; AAOE President Joseph Mathews, PT, DPT
INDIANAPOLIS, IN—May 8, 2025. The American Alliance of Orthopaedic Executives (AAOE) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 President’s Award: Smita Mathews and Krista Armstrong. This special recognition is given annually by the sitting AAOE President to honor individuals who have provided unwavering support during their presidential term.
This year’s President’s Award was presented by AAOE President Joseph Mathews, PT, DPT, Practice Administrator, Advanced Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, a division of OrthoLonestar, who reflected on the quiet strength and enduring commitment that often fuels great leadership. “Behind every success story is someone whose support, unwavering commitment, and sacrifice made it possible,” said Mathews. “Today, we honor two women who exemplify that selfless spirit.”
The first honoree is Smita Mathews, the President’s wife of 19 years. Her steadfast belief in her husband’s vision and tireless encouragement over nearly two decades were recognized with a special gift from the stage. “Despite having more degrees than me, she chose to support my dreams,” said Mathews. “Her grace, intellect, and quiet strength have carried me through every challenge.”
The official AAOE President’s Award was presented to Krista Armstrong, Operations and Revenue Cycle Director at Advanced Orthopaedics. A trusted colleague and confidant to Mathews for 17 years, Krista has been instrumental in maintaining operational excellence at the practice while her teammate contributed time and expertise to AAOE, the T-Bones, and the Texas Orthopaedic Association. “Krista is my ‘work wife’—the one who held down the fort, led with integrity, and made countless sacrifices behind the scenes,” said Mathews. “This award is a small reflection of the impact she has made on my journey.”
“The President’s Award is one of the most heartfelt honors given each year, and this year’s recipients are a powerful reminder of the quiet leadership and personal sacrifices that make our community so strong,” said Mathews. “Smita and Krista represent the quiet supporters in each of our lives that allow leaders to thrive—whether it’s through encouragement at home or excellence in the workplace. Their impact on AAOE’s mission is profound, even if it’s often behind the scenes.”
As the audience celebrated these two remarkable women, AAOE encouraged attendees to reflect on those who have lifted them up, carried burdens, and helped them soar.
About AAOE
The American Alliance of Orthopaedic Executives was founded in 1969 and is the only nonprofit orthopaedic-management specific organization developed to serve the musculoskeletal industry. Membership includes more than 1,200 orthopedic practice executives, administrators, physicians, and their staff. AAOE provides education, community, and resources to set the standard of professional knowledge and industry insight. For more information, visit www.aaoe.net.