K12 Scholars Program
The Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF) is thrilled to introduce the NREF K12 Scholar Program – an expansion of access to the K12 program representing a strategic, high-impact opportunity to invest in the future of neurosurgery. Over the years, NREF has made the commitment to ensure new discoveries and scientific innovations through its funding of key research studies. Just last year, the NREF awarded over 50 grants and fellowships. While we are proud of all that NREF has helped support over our forty-five year history, we know there is more to achieve in support of the surgeon-scientist.
With this program, we are poised to deliver an investment in the next breakthrough in neurosurgical research.
The NREF K12 Scholar Program endowment will be dedicated to supporting one additional K12 scholar every other year and will be structured to generate sustainable income, enabling the long-term support of scholars who would otherwise be unable to participate due to geographic or personal constraints. We anticipate applications for the first NREF K12 Scholar Program grant will open in the Fall of 2027.
The K12 Program has established a strong foundation for research excellence, boasting an impressive success rate, with approximately 90% of participants securing independent NIH funding, affirming the program’s role as a pipeline for cultivating academic leaders in neurosurgery.
The NREF relies on the understanding, concern and generosity of people like you to advance the research legacy for other young, talented medical students, residents and fellows. Your gift will open doors for the next generation of neurosurgeons and foster improved outcomes for our patients with neurosurgical diseases.
Sustained investment in neurosurgical research is essential to the next breakthrough. The NREF is grateful for the support of the neurosurgical community in launching the NREF K12 Scholar Program, including:
- American Academy of Neurological Surgeons
- Columbia Charity Softball Tournament
- Edward H. Oldfield Honor Your Mentor Fund
- Ralph G. Dacey Honor Your Mentor Fund
- Warren R. Selman Honor Your Mentor Fund
Their generosity will empower the neurosurgeons that will move our specialty forward. 
Key Features of the NREF K12 Scholar Program
- Program Expansion: Additional one (1) K12 scholar every other year, with specific outreach to underrepresented and “stay-at-home” candidates.
- Sustainability: Establishing a permanent fund that ensures continuity and reduces reliance on annual fundraising efforts.
- Institutional Partnership: Strengthening the AANS and NREF’s role in a prestigious NIH-funded initiative and elevating our profile in academic neurosurgery.
This initiative is aligned with the Foundation’s philanthropic mission, which emphasizes sustainability, equity, and excellence in neurosurgical education and research, complementing existing programs while creating new pathways for participation.
Applications for the first NREF K12 Scholar grant will open in June, 2027.
To join your fellow philanthropists in support of the NREF K12 Scholar Program, please visit our secure online Donate page to make a tax-deductible donation.