ASBN Overview of Initiatives
The American Society of Black Neurosurgeons (ASBN) advances diversity, equity, and excellence in neurosurgery through mentorship, research, education, and community engagement. From student pipeline programs to global partnerships, ASBN creates opportunities that uplift Black neurosurgeons and shape a more inclusive future for the field.
National Meetings & Networking
Biannual Dinner Receptions (AANS & CNS): Networking dinners with guest presentations and discussion of key issues in neurosurgery and equity.
Biannual Seminar Sessions: Scientific program panels at AANS/CNS highlighting the intersection of equity and neurosurgery.
Mixers & Panels at Partner Conferences:
Student Ambassador Program (AANS/CNS) connecting students with mentors.
SNMA Neurosurgery Intro Panel & Mixer for medical students.
NMA Neurology/Neurosurgery Mixer fostering collaboration.
Community Engagement & Outreach
Ignite the Brain School Event: Interactive sessions for underserved elementary students introducing neurosurgery and medicine.
Community Health Fair: Partnering with local vendors at AANS/CNS meetings to provide screenings and promote wellness.
Mentorship & Pipeline Development
NeuroMentoring Matters (ASBN–SNMA collaboration):
Mentorship pods linking high school, undergrad, med students, and attendings.
Virtual seminars on navigating neurosurgery pathways.
In-person mentee/mentor mixers at annual meetings.
ASBN Brain Trust: Virtual office hours with neurosurgeons answering student and resident questions.
Student Ambassador Program: Travel support and structured mentorship opportunities at national meetings.
Research & Academic Development
Canady/Sumner Greene Honorarium Awards: Recognizing outstanding male and female student researchers in neurosurgery.
Research Pilot Program: Connecting students without a home neurosurgery program to attendings for projects and residency preparation.
Education & Career Development
July Intern/Resident Seminar: Practical “tips and tricks” for excelling in residency.
January Life After Residency Series: Preparing residents for post-training careers.
Stryker Mobile Lab (HBCU Series): Traveling lab sessions at HBCUs to introduce neurosurgery and demonstrate core techniques.
Media & Awareness
Social Media Campaigns:
Showcasing ASBN student, resident, and faculty achievements.
Highlighting health disparities in neurosurgical disease.
Public education on neurosurgical conditions in accessible, relatable formats.
Global Neurosurgery
Global Neurosurgery Subcommittee: Partnerships with African and Caribbean neurosurgical societies to promote equitable collaboration and decolonization of global neurosurgery.
Monthly Global Neurosurgery Newsletter: Spotlights on global neurosurgeons, publications, and events.
