Frank DeRuyter, PhD is Professor Emeritus of Surgery at Duke University School of Medicine. He received his degree from the University of Washington in 1978. He spent 3 years at the University of Utah and 15 years at Rancho Los Amigo Medical Center. In 1995 he was recruited to Duke University until retirement in 2018. While at Duke, he was Professor, Department of Surgery; Chief, Department of Speech Pathology & Audiology; and Section Head, Division of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences. Throughout his career he has also served as Principal Investigator of 10 federally funded, multiyear extramural awards, totaling over $30 million dollars that focused on the research and development of assistive technologies for the disabled.

Following retirement, he has continued his research interests as the Senior Research Scientist at the Shepherd Center Rehabilitation Hospital in Atlanta. This work is currently emphasizing promoting access to emerging disruptive technologies and mHealth/mRehab for all people regardless of ability.

He has over 100 major publications; presented over 330 keynotes/professional papers at national/international conferences; and serves on numerous professional committees and advisory boards. He joined the Bridge School Board in 2016.