J. Stephen Waters, M.D.

This fund was established by Dr. Waters’ wife Shelley in 2015 at the time of his passing to honor his lifelong support of education and his commitment to helping others.

Dr. Waters earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Virginia Military Institute, where he excelled in gymnastics, soccer and held a record in the javelin throw. Additionally, he served in the United States Army Reserve and left the military with an Honorable Discharge in 1976.

Dr. Waters attended medical school at the University of Florida and graduated in 1975. He continued his education at UF, completing his residency in Orthopaedic Surgery. Later, he opened The Orthopaedic Center of Gainesville a colleague, and specialized in sports medicine, focusing on knee and hip replacements. When Haiti was affected by a major earthquake in 2010, Dr. Waters traveled there to provide medical assistance and relief to local residents.

After practicing medicine for 32 years, Dr. Waters retired in 2012. During his retirement, he served on the UF Medical School Admissions committee and the Medical School’s Alumni board.

Dr. Waters’ first application to medical school was unsuccessful, but he was accepted upon his second application. He believed the persistence of students to continue to apply to medical school after an unsuccessful application demonstrated perseverance, tenacity and commitment to the practice of medicine.

Dr. Waters’ legacy is carried on by his wife Shelley, who still resides in Gainesville, as well as their four children and two grandchildren.