Chen inducted into ACS Academy of Master Surgeon Educators

Herbert Chen, M.D., FACSHerbert Chen, M.D., sets an example for his surgical mentees and invites them into the field of surgery through his publications and research., Fay Fletcher Kerner Endowed Chair of Surgery and surgeon-in-chief of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital and Health System, has been named an associate member in the American College of Surgeons Academy of Master Surgeon Educators™. He was inducted at a ceremony Oct. 15, and his membership will last for a period of five years.

As the chair of the Department of Surgery in the Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine, Chen oversees 10 fellowship programs, five residencies, and numerous high school and internship opportunities. He has mentored over 125 faculty, postdoctoral fellows, residents, medical students and undergraduates in the clinical space, as well as in his lab. In fact, one main area of focus for the lab is education research. 

Chen sets an example for his surgical mentees and invites them into the field of surgery through his publications and research. Chen has published over 540 original research and review articles and has edited 25 textbooks, and he has been recognized for his passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of surgical leaders.

“Not only has Dr. Chen made trainee education a priority, but he values education opportunities of the Department of Surgery faculty and staff through continuing medical education,” said UAB Senior Vice President of Medicine and Dean of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine Selwyn Vickers, M.D., FACS. “I look forward to seeing the ways Dr. Chen continues to prioritize education across his department and improve surgical education standards across the nation.”

Chen says he is honored to be inducted into this year’s class.

“The Academy of Master Surgeon Educators™ is an outstanding organization that represents many values of our own department here at UAB,” Chen said. “This network of surgeons is a truly accomplished group of individuals whom I look forward to working alongside to generate more surgical education opportunities.”

Developed under the auspices of the ACS Division of Education, the academy recognizes surgeon educators who have devoted their careers to surgical education. Individuals are selected as members or associate members following stringent peer review. The academy’s mission is to play a leadership role in advancing the science and practice of education across all surgical specialties, promoting the highest achievements in the lifetimes of surgeons.