The American Limb Preservation Society (ALPS) proudly celebrates Dr. Joseph Mills, Professor and Chief, Division of Vascular Surgery & Endovascular Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine — and ALPS Founding Clinical Chair—on receiving the American Diabetes Association’s honor in diabetic foot care, the 2025 Roger Pecoraro Award.
Given in memory of Roger E. Pecoraro, MD, a pioneer in research on the causes and prevention of foot ulcers and amputations in diabetes, the Roger E. Pecoraro Award recognizes a researcher who has made scientific contributions and demonstrates an untiring commitment to improving the understanding of detection, treatment, and prevention of diabetic foot complications.
Dr. Laura Shin, Chair of the Foot Care Interest group, American Diabetes Association, says:
“Dr Mills is the embodiment of the Roger E. Pecoraro award. He has dedicated his life to helping the most vulnerable patients and has created a legacy of multidisciplinary teams dedicated to preventing amputations. His passion for research, mentorship and his family is truly inspiring. This is just one of many awards in his remarkable career and I feel so lucky to know him.”
A global leader in limb preservation
A global leader in limb preservation, Dr. Mills’ groundbreaking work at Baylor College of Medicine has transformed outcomes for patients with diabetes-related foot complications. His recognition is a milestone not only for his career but for the entire ALPS community and the mission we share.
Dr. Mills has helped shape the field both through his clinical work and his role as a co-founder of DFCon. DFCon—the Diabetic Foot Conference—is ALPS’ flagship event and North America’s premier interdisciplinary gathering on diabetic limb salvage, bringing together global leaders in podiatry, vascular surgery, wound care, and technology to share the latest in science, education, and innovation.
This year’s ADA Scientific Sessions also highlighted the growing presence of ALPS in advancing diabetic foot care as Dr. Laura Shin chaired a major session on limb salvage innovations, joined by fellow experts Dr. Marcos Schechter, Dr. Shai Rozen, and Dr. Lucian Vlad.
In addition, Dr. Larry Lavery was announced as incoming Chair of the ADA Foot Care Council—further underscoring the powerful presence and leadership of the ALPS community at this premier scientific gathering.
