Understanding and finding opportunities for inclusive mentorship and sponsorships in vascular surgery

Deliberate efforts are needed to address the lack of diversity in the vascular surgery workforce and to correct the current scarcity of diversity in vascular surgery leadership. Effective mentorship and sponsorship are crucial for success in academic surgery. In the present report, we have explained the importance of mentorship and sponsorship relationships for surgeons historically underrepresented in medicine, discussed the unique challenges faced by them in academic surgery, and provided a practical framework for fostering intentional and thoughtful mentor and sponsor relationships to nurture their careers.

Automated summary

Deliberate efforts are required to address the lack of diversity in the vascular surgery workforce and leadership. Effective mentorship and sponsorship are crucial for success in academic surgery, especially for historically underrepresented surgeons. This report discusses the importance of mentorship and sponsorship relationships, unique challenges faced by minority surgeons in academic surgery, and provides a practical framework for fostering intentional and thoughtful mentor and sponsor relationships to nurture their careers.