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SUS Foundation

SUS Foundation

University-Based Surgical Education and Research

  • Home
  • About SUSF
    • Vision
    • Stepstone Fellowship
      • Stepstone Application Form
  • Our Supporters
  • Leadership
    • Board of Directors Nominations Now Open
      • Board of Directors Nomination Application
  • Why Support?
  • SUS

STEPSTONE FELLOWSHIP

EMPOWERING THE FUTURE OF ACADEMIC SURGERY

At the Society of University Surgeons Foundation (SUSF), we are dedicated to advancing academic surgery by investigating in the next generation of leaders. Through mentorship, education, and innovation, we foster excellence in surgical science and leadership.

As part of this mission, we are proud to offer the SUS Stepstone Fellowship Award – a transformative opportunity designed to accelerate the careers of early-stage academic surgeons.

ABOUT THE STEPSTONE FELLOWSHIP

As part of this mission, we are proud to offer the SUSF Stepstone Fellowship Award—a transformative opportunity designed to accelerate the careers of early-stage academic surgeons.

The SUSF Stepstone Fellowship is a catalyst for catalyst for career growth, providing emerging leaders in surgery with unparalleled access to top institutions, influential mentors, and immersive experiences that shape the future of the field.

Each year, up to two outstanding SUS members (within their first five years of membership) are awarded $5,000 to support a one-week immersive experience at al leading institution. Fellows will gain firsthand exposure to cutting-edge surgical research, institution leadership structures, and academic governance – equipping them with the insight and connections to elevate their careers.

This fellowship is more than just a learning experience – it’s a steppingstone to leadership, collaboration, and scientific innovation.

APPLY TODAY FOR THE STEPSTONE FELLOWSHIP

WHO SHOULD APPLY

We’re looking for early-career academic surgeons eager to expand their expertise and professional network. Ideal candidates.

Are within the first five year of their SUS membership
Can commit to a one-week visit at a host institution
Have support from their home institution, including ability to travel and additional financial support
Are available to accept the award at the SUS Annual Awards Session at the Academic Surgical Congress (ASC) Meeting (February 3-5, 2026 in Buena Vista, FL)

APPLICATION TIMELINE & PROCESS

  • March 18, 2025: Application Opens
  • June 17, 2025: Application Deadline
  • September 2025: Awardee(s) Notified
  • February 2026: Awarded fellow(s) announced at SUS Awards Session at ASC Meeting and awardee(s) present at the SUSF Board Meeting

APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING:

Online Application
Cover Letter
Three Letters of Recommendation, including one from the department chair and two from SUS members (with 5+ years of membership)
One-page Personal Statement, outlining qualifications, fellowship goals, and impact fellowship would have on applicant’s career
CV, Biosketch, and Digital Photo

ADDITIONAL FELLOWSHIP REQUIREMENTS/INFORMATION

  • Funds must be utilized within six months of the award or should be returned
  • Fellows must submit a one-page overview report of their experience prior to the SUSF Board Meeting
  • For questions regarding the Stepstone Fellowship, please contact Sara Rossi Statis at sara@susweb.org.

Society of University Surgeons
11300 W. Olympic Blvd. Ste 600
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Phone: 310-986-6443

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SUSF Executive Director:
Sara Rossi Statis, ext. 159

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