Advancing Excellence, Equity and Integrity in Neurosurgery

Who Are We?

The American Society of Black Neurosurgeons (ASBN) is a dynamic network of trailblazers committed to transforming the landscape of neurosurgical care. As a leading organization dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field, we empower Black neurosurgeons at every stage of their careers— from aspiring medical students to esteemed faculty members.

Our society exists to bridge opportunity gaps, amplify voices, and build a future where Black neurosurgeons thrive, innovate, and lead with impact.

Our Mission and

Commitment

ASBN improves public health by supporting Black neurosurgeons and enriching the equity and integrity of neurosurgical care.

We champion initiatives that:
✔ Recruit & Retain – Expanding the pipeline to bring more Black physicians into neurosurgery.
✔ Develop Leaders – Providing mentorship, faculty development, and career advancement opportunities.
✔ Ensure Equity – Advocating for fair and accessible neurosurgical care for all patients.

Through education, advocacy, and community, ASBN is reshaping the future of neurosurgery - one breakthrough at a time.

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ASBN News

 

Voices of ASBN

Become a Member

ASBN membership is currently free for a limited time as we continue to grow and develop our programming. Now’s a great time to join and get connected with a supportive community of Black neurosurgeons, mentors, and future colleagues. Don’t miss out

  • Student

    An individual currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program and post-graduate students with an interest in neurosurgery.

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  • Resident Member

    A board-eligible physician currently enrolled in an ACGME-accredited neurosurgical residency program in the United States.

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  • Attending Member

    A board-eligible or board-certified physician who has completed a neurosurgical residency at an ACGME-accredited program in the United States.

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  • Ally Member

    A non-physician professional committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and excellence within the neurosurgical field.

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  • Fellow Member

    A board-certified or board-eligible neurosurgeon currently in fellowship training or within the first five years of independent practice in the United States, seeking community, mentorship, and leadership opportunities within the field of neurosurgery.

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  • International Affiliate Membership

    An international physician, neurosurgeon, neurosurgical trainee, or medical student who resides, practices, or trains outside of the United States and is committed to advancing equity and excellence in neurosurgery.

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Questions?

If you have a general question, please complete the form and someone will respond to your inquiry within 72 hours.

If you're interested in becoming a member, please reference the Join Us page and our different membership categories.

If you’re looking to subscribe to receive updates about events, programs and initiatives, please subscribe by completing the form at the bottom of the page.

Thank you!

Follow us on social media!

This Neurosurgery Awareness Month, we celebrate the power of neurosurgery to save lives, advance medicine, and inspire future leaders in the field. A special thank you to our colleagues at the American Association of Neurological Surgeons @aansneuro
Are you an ASBN member yet? Leaders like our President-Elect Dr. Ernest J. Barthélemy and Dr. Holly Gilmer are proud members—and we’d love for you to join them! As a member, you’ll gain: ✨ Access to mentorship opportunities
Innovation starts with inquiry. The Research Committee is dedicated to advancing neurosurgery through discovery, collaboration, and mentorship. If you’re passionate about pushing the field forward and supporting groundbreaking work, your voice
Today is the last day to join our subcommittees! Be the heartbeat behind our signature moments! From elegant receptions to community service projects, the Events Subcommittee is where ideas come alive and connections are made. If you love bringing pe
Your voice matters. Your ideas are valid. Are you an ASBN member with a passion for global neurosurgery? We're currently accepting new members for our Global Neurosurgery Subcommittee and want you to be a part of the team. This is a chance to make a
From the basketball court to the operating room, Dr. Ariana S. Barkley’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, raised in Canada, and trained at some of the world’s top institutions, she now serves as a pedia
📰 In the Spotlight! We’re thrilled to share that Dr. Sonia Eden, board-certified neurosurgeon, advocate for health equity, and co-founder of the American Society of Black Neurosurgeons (ASBN), is featured in the August issue of At Home Memphis
We kicked off our inaugural session with past ASBN President, Dr. Nnenna Mbabuike and Dr. William W. Ashley who connected one-on-one with four students throughout the day. “It was a really great experience,” said Dr. Mbabuike. “I th
Are you a member of ASBN? From mentoring the next generation of neurosurgeons to building a global network of excellence, ASBN is where connection meets impact. Our members aren’t just part of a society—they’re shaping the future of
You still have time to join a committee! We are actively building out our Resident Subcommittee and we need YOU! From prioritizing mental health and wellness to virtual mentorship series, we're creating resources to help residents thrive. Intereste
There’s still time to reserve your spot for a one-on-one mentorship session with Dr. William Ashley on August 4th from 9–11 AM (CST). This is your opportunity to connect, ask questions, and receive guidance from a trailblazer in the field
Numbers matter—and so does your voice. Help drive impact behind the scenes by joining the Finance Subcommittee! Applications are open until 8/15—bring your brilliance and let’s make every dollar count. Visit amsobns.org today to a
This year’s NMA Scientific Assembly was filled with meaningful moments—and ASBN showed up in full force! We were proud to witness some of members deliver impactful presentations centered on spine surgery, oncology, and global neurotrauma
The ASBN Recruitment Subcommittee is where mentorship meets momentum. From undergrads to attendings, we’re building a supportive, sustainable pipeline into neurosurgery—and ensuring our members thrive at every stage. Here’s how we
The energy at our Meeting of the Minds Mixer was unmatched! ✨ Thank you to everyone who showed up and showed out—and a special shoutout to @medtronic for sponsoring this event. We welcomed new members, sparked powerful conversations, and stren
A huge thank you to Dr. Sonia Eden for representing ASBN with excellence at the NMA Scientific Meeting! Did you catch her powerful presentation today? Our members continue to inspire— and we invite you to join us in shaping the future of Black
We’re excited to announce our virtual office hours! Through the ASBN Brain Trust, we’re offering students and residents a unique opportunity to connect with our executive committee and receive valuable career guidance. Our first mentorshi
Are you ready to lead, create, and serve? The ASBN Service & Communications Subcommittee is recruiting for 2025 and we need YOU. Join the ASBN Service & Communications Subcommittee and help us: 📢 Amplify Black voices in neurosurgery 🧠 Brin
Chicago, we're ready for you! In just 5 days, we’re bringing together neurosurgeons and neurologists for an evening of connection, mentorship and momentum. Join us for our Meeting of the Minds Mixer on Sunday, July 20th, during the @nationalme
“Showcase who you are through engagement and preparation—you are sourcing trust from those who are training you.” Dr. Arnett Klugh emphasized that in every interaction—with attendings, residents, or fellow trainees—you

If you are navigating symptoms or waiting for a diagnosis, know that you are not alone. While we share insights to educate and empower, it is important to consult your primary care provider or establish care with one for proper referral, diagnosis, and treatment.

Your health journey matters — and so does having the right support by your side.

The American Society of Black Neurosurgeons