Dear Friends and Colleagues,

As chair of the Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF), I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a board of directors who set the strategic course for the organization, physician leaders who direct our research, fellowship and educational endeavors, fellows, residents and medical students who bring energy and innovation through their participation in our programs and the staff who administer and execute Foundation operations. We’ve shared a common goal: Support the NREF in its mission to provide neurosurgeons with a springboard to success.

In 2020, I took the baton from Regis W. Haid, Jr., MD, FAANS, who along with NREF chair emeritus, Jon H. Robertson, MD, FAANS, provided great counsel and inspiration. Over the past three years, the NREF has awarded more than 150 grants and fellowships and trained more than 100 residents and fellows.

In addition, we’ve seen:

• Tremendous growth in the Honor Your Mentor (HYM) program with 15 new funds and an 18% increase in pledges
• Collaboration with the Chuck Noll Foundation and YNC to expand online educational offerings
• Establishment of new partnerships with affiliated organizations, such as StacheStrong, the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation and Gladiator Project to support research grants
• Launch of a mobile donation platform and the annual “Cushing Bowl”

Over the past three years, we’ve seen a profound need for scientific research and educational training. The last three years have been challenging, but they have also provided an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the wisdom of our past, and the gifts we enjoy today to move our specialty, neurosurgery, forward.

Our donors – individual members, industry partners and collaborating organizations – make everything possible. I personally want to thank you for your support, which is even more meaningful recognizing how difficult the last three years were for all of us. We are proud of the foundation’s accomplishments, and embrace the work still to be done.

In April, Adam S. Arthur, MD, MPH, FAANS, will assume the chair’s role to lead the foundation as it continues to expand research and educational initiatives. The future success of the NREF depends upon the contributions of each and every one of us. I hope you will once again choose to support the NREF and our mission to be a catalyst for improving the future of our chosen profession. Together, we can create opportunities for our fellow neurosurgeons and ensure the scientific discoveries and innovation of tomorrow.

To make a tax-deductible donation, visit our secure online Donate page. Your gift will help to advance neurosurgery and improve neurosurgical care for our patients.

Serving the NREF has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career. My sincere thanks for including NREF in your philanthropy and best wishes for your continued success.