The Van Wagenen Fellowship is the most innovative and flexible opportunity to acquire unique skills and knowledge to jumpstart an academic career of innovation and impact. It has the unique quality of being designed by the Fellow for the Fellow, allowing immense freedom in choosing the area of research concentration. Former Fellows have an outstanding track record with over 4500 publications, tens of millions of dollars in research grants, one third becoming department chairs, five presidents of the CNS, one of the AANS and three Honored Guests of the CNS. Former fellows will describe the history and purpose of the Fellowship, present summaries of the innovative work catalyzed by their fellowship experience, provide guidance and advice on the application process. and lead open discussion of how to begin a career in academic neurosurgery.

Andrew W. Grande, MD, FAANS
Stephen J. Haines, MD, FAANS(L)
Yu-Hung Kuo, MD, PhD, FAANS
Shekar N. Kurpad, MD, PhD, FAANS
L. Dade Lunsford, MD, FAANS
David Ryan Ormond, MD, PhD, FAANS
Michael Chankwon Park, MD, PhD, FAANS
Theodore H. Schwartz, MD, FAANS, FACS

Upon completion of this CME activity, participants should be able to:

• Be able to cite four characteristics that identify outstanding applicants for academic neurosurgery positions after fellowship
• Be able to cite the requirements for applying for the Van Wagenen Fellowship
• Be able to discuss the primary characteristics of a successful Van Wagenen Fellowship application
• Be able to cite examples of how skill and knowledge acquired in fellowship can lead to a  successful academic career