Dr. Tom Eldringhoff, principal of Catholic High School, said the choice was easy, not only because of Dr. Pope’s dedicated service to CHS but because he is an inspiration to young men and the kind of role model school leaders want for all students.
“Dr. Pope has a quiet but profound commitment to excellence,” he said. “He has been a staple on our football sidelines for more than 20 years. Not only does he provide excellent medical care to our players, but off the field, he goes above and beyond to provide treatment to students and faculty - regardless of how busy he is.”
Every year, each Catholic school in the Diocese of Baton Rouge selects alumni to recognize as their distinguished graduates. To be eligible, an individual must have a proven track record of making significant impacts on their school, church, and community. Catholic High School chose Dr. Pope for his long-standing commitment to professional excellence, high values, excellent character, and service to the greater community – all of which are an integral part of the mission of Catholic schools.
A 1985 graduate of CHS, Dr. Pope currently serves as an Orthopedic Surgeon at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge where he practices general orthopedic surgery with a subspecialty interest in knee arthroscopy, sports medicine, and knee joint replacement. He received his Medical Degree from LSU School of Medicine-New Orleans in 1993, where he was the recipient of several distinguished awards, including the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association Award, the McGraw-Hill Book Award for the Highest Ranking Freshman Medical Student, and the Urban Maes Memorial Award for the Most Outstanding Four Year Medical Academic Achievement.
Dr. Pope is a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and was recognized by Louisiana Life as a Top Doctor in 2015 & 2016.
CHS administrators, faculty, and other community leaders will honor Dr. Pope at a special Distinguished Graduate Awards Dinner hosted by the Diocese of Baton Rouge on January 29, 2024.