Dear Friends and Colleagues,

When I was given the role of NREF chair last year, I was hopeful about the potential for the growth of the culture of philanthropy within neurosurgery. Today, I am enthusiastically optimistic about what the future holds for the Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF).

• In the past year, eight new Honor Your Mentor Funds have been established representing more than $200,000 in pledges. 
• A hockey tournament hosted by the Van Wagenen Fellows raised more than $18,000 to support the William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship.
• The 183 individuals and 45 organizations that make up the Cushing Circle of Giving now represent more than $10,178,732 in cumulative donations.
• We have some exciting plans for the 2024 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting: Residency programs from around the country will be competing in the third annual Cushing Bowl and you can go to bat for neurosurgery by taking swings in the NREF Wiffle Ball Cage on the Exhibit Floor.

And, in the coming weeks, the NREF will award nearly $2 million in grants and fellowships for the 2024-25 academic year. While we take pride in this achievement, it’s important to note that many promising research projects will go unfunded.

Our commitment to the future of neurosurgery remains steadfast: We aim to foster groundbreaking discoveries and scientific advancements in neurosurgery by supporting pivotal research initiatives. Every contribution to the NREF, no matter the size, directly impacts patients, educators, researchers, clinicians and emerging neurosurgeons.

Our foundation relies on the understanding and generosity of our members to propel the research legacy forward for talented medical students, residents, fellows and early career neurosurgeons.

Your generosity will unlock opportunities for physician-scientists.

To make a tax-deductible contribution, please visit our secure online Donate page today or simply text “NEUROSURGERY” to 41444 from your mobile device. To give by mail, kindly send your check to NREF at 7661 Eagle Way, Chicago, IL 60678-1076.

Your gift will help advance neurosurgery and improve neurosurgical care for our patients.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your support of the NREF.

Kind regards,