William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship
Fund Purpose: To support initiatives that promote and strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion within AANS and the broader neurosurgical community.
To support promising residents in their pursuit of the William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship and to continue Dr. Van Wagenen’s mission and legacy.
The William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship was established by the estate of Dr. Van Wagenen, one of the founders and the first President of the Harvey Cushing Society, now the AANS.
Following his neurosurgical residency with Harvey Cushing, Dr. Van Wagenen traveled and studied in Europe, broadening his knowledge of neurological surgery and the related basic sciences. This was done at the recommendation of Dr. Cushing, much as Cushing had done, following the example of Sir William Osler.
In considering what permanent contribution he might make to neurosurgery, Dr. Van Wagenen chose to support foreign travel for scientific enrichment. The Van Wagenen Fellowship was designed to give freedom in scientific development without the restrictive limitations usually imposed by many research grants and fellowships.
“The Van Wagenen Fellowship has opened doors and provided great opportunities for many recipients. It has been a key factor in fostering a number of successful academic careers.”
- Robert A. Ratcheson, MD FAANS(L), former president of the AANS and 1972 recipient of the William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship
A donation to the Van Wagenen Fellowship Fund will help support this amazing professional opportunity, and ultimately, your gift will have a major impact on neurosurgical patients, educators, researchers and clinicians.
To view a list of all donors to this fund, click here.