Purpose
SSO’s Presidential Scholars program pairs mentees with distinguished leaders in the field of surgical oncology. The goal is to facilitate the mentees’ personal and professional growth by providing guidance, support, and knowledge transfer from the more experienced SSO members.
Structure
- This is a two-year commitment, beginning at SSO 2027 through SSO 2029.
- A cohort of mentee/mentor pairs will meet virtually at least twice per year and in-person at the SSO annual meeting.
- Additional in-person activities will be arranged when possible.
Award Details
Accepted mentees will receive a discount on meeting registration for SSO 2027 (not including any optional pre-meetings or sessions with an extra fee).
Past Recipients
Learn more about the 2026 recipients here.
Applicant must meet the following criteria:
- A member of the SSO in good standing (2026 dues must be paid) to apply.
- Within 5 years of their first faculty/staff appointment and currently employed.
- Cannot have previously received an SSO International Career Development Exchange grant.
- If international, must have a current passport and be able to travel to the United States and obtain a travel visa to the United States if coming from a country where one is required.
The SSO reserves the right to evaluate and determine eligibility based on the information and
justifications included in the requested materials.
Presidential Scholars must commit to:
- Complete an online information and agreement form distributed by SSO.
- Submit a summary report about the experience and complete any surveys sent during the program, along with any follow-ups requested by SSO.
- Submit any photos or videos taken during the SSO Annual Meeting and other activities for use on SSO’s social media, website, marketing materials, or for any other use in support of the program.
- Participants may be asked to record audio or video interviews regarding the experience.
SSO member Mentors are an integral part of this program, serving as long-term professional contacts for participants. Mentors will be asked to:
- Meet virtually with their mentee at least twice per year and at the annual meeting.
- Serve as a long-term professional contact for their mentee.