ROSEMONT, Ill., Aug. 7, 2026 — The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) is pleased to announce the new David L. Bartlett Legacy Award, named in honor of David L. Bartlett, MD, founder of the Advanced Cancer Therapies (ACT) Meeting, whose visionary leadership has shaped the field of regional and advanced cancer treatment.
Dr. Bartlett serves as Chair of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute and is a past president of the Society of Surgical Oncology. A globally recognized leader in abdominal cancer management and regional therapies, he has significantly advanced the field through pioneering surgical approaches, groundbreaking research, training future leaders in the field, and a steadfast dedication to improving patient outcomes.
Funded by the Society of Surgical Oncology, this award honors an early-career faculty member whose work reflects a clear trajectory toward transformative contributions in education, mentorship, and innovation in advanced cancer therapies. Recipients receive a $2,500 travel stipend to visit and learn from a senior leader of their choosing at the leader’s institution.
“ACT was founded on the belief that innovation in regional and advanced cancer therapies thrives through collaboration, mentorship and bold ideas,” said Jason M. Foster, MD, FACS, chair of the Advanced Cancer Therapies Committee. “We are excited to open the first request for applications for the David L. Bartlett Legacy Award for early-career faculty engaged in educational, clinical, and research work that will be announced and presented at ACT 2027. This unique award provides support for early-career candidates to catalyze collaboration and mentorship through the SSO with senior leaders in advanced cancer therapies. We look forward to fostering the relationships that will drive future innovation!”
In establishing this award, SSO honors not only Dr. Bartlett’s career, but also his enduring commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders in advanced cancer therapies. The Society of Surgical Oncology looks forward to celebrating the recipients who carry this legacy forward.
Contact: Devin Winkler, Director, Meetings and Education, Society of Surgical Oncology, devinwinkler@surgonc.org