Our Story

Make learning and teaching more effective with active participation and student collaboration

Background

The Dr. Stephen A. Stepaniuk Institute honors the life and work of Dr. Stepaniuk, a trailblazer in disability rights and social justice. Renowned for combining advocacy with technological innovation, his legacy inspires efforts toward equity and inclusion.

Founded to preserve and share his vision, the institute equips individuals with tools and resources to drive meaningful change, ensuring his impact continues to shape a fairer future.

Mission & Vision

To inspire and empower future generations of activists and changemakers by sharing the lessons and strategies of Dr. Stepaniuk’s impactful life. We believe in fostering a deeper understanding of social justice issues and equipping individuals with the tools to create real, lasting change.

A Tribute to Dr. Stephen Stepaniuk’s Ethical Leadership and Professional Contributions

As someone who has had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Stephen Stepaniuk, I can say with confidence that he exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others.


With a distinguished career in orthopedics, I’ve served as Chief of the Division of Orthopedic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and worked as a team doctor for the Los Angeles Raiders. Over the years, I have encountered many exceptional professionals, but Dr. Stepaniuk’s dedication to his craft and his patients truly stands out.


Dr. Stepaniuk has contributed significantly to the medical and chiropractic professions, particularly through his work on the California & Physician Guidelines for Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs). His efforts have directly benefited countless disabled patients, helping them secure accurate impairment ratings and the benefits they deserve. At the same time, his objective testing methods have ensured fairness by differentiating those with genuine disabilities from those attempting to misuse the system.


In my work with Dr. Stepaniuk, I have witnessed firsthand his ethical approach, even in challenging situations. He has faced adversity with resilience and courage, particularly when unethical practices attempted to undermine the integrity of court-ordered medical exams. His dedication to standing up for what is right, even when facing unjust accusations, is a testament to his character and professionalism.


Before collaborating with Dr. Stepaniuk, I was taught to be wary of chiropractors—a bias I later realized was misplaced. Working with him has been an enlightening experience that has deepened my respect for the chiropractic profession and its value in holistic patient care. Dr. Stepaniuk has demonstrated not only the scientific rigor of his work but also his compassionate approach to helping patients live better lives.


Dr. Stepaniuk is not just a colleague; he is a good family man, a trusted leader, and someone I am proud to call a friend. His contributions have left a lasting impact on our profession, and his work continues to inspire others to uphold the highest ethical standards.


Sincerely,

Norman Rotenberg, M.D., Q.M.E.
Orthopedic Surgeon

Things that make us proud

Choose your learning level

Beginner

Comprehensive lesson plans and activities to help educators teach about Dr. Stephen A. Stepaniuk's life and work.

Advanced

Engage with complex case studies and projects that challenge students to apply Dr. Stepaniuk's principles in real-world contexts.

Intermediate

Explore in-depth activities and discussions that expand on Dr. Stepaniuk’s contributions, helping students deepen their understanding.

Mastery

Master Dr. Stepaniuk’s legacy through comprehensive analyses, debates, and expert-level projects designed for advanced learners.

Your Journey Towards Innovation Begins Here—Contact Us

Our Team

Devon Lane

Professor

Courtney Henry

Assistant Professor

Jane Cooper

Assistant Professor

Esther Howard

Visual Artist