Throughout 2021, the AANS Young Neurosurgeon’s Committee (YNC), under chair Dr. Jeremiah Johnson, has continued to adapt to the pandemic-influenced academic environment.  The Instagram account (@Youngneuros) and Twitter account (@Youngneuros) continue to gain followers as the group has focused on and become a leader in the creation and promotion of excellent web-based educational content appealing to young neurosurgeons and medical students globally. The YNC, in conjunction with the NREF, broadcasted 22 webinars (including a 4 part sub-internship preparation series) throughout the year covering a range of topics focused on becoming a neurosurgeon. Links to the webinars can be found at the NREF YouTube page. Given its success, a new season is being planned for Fall 2021.

The partnership with the AANS/CNS Joint Tumor section has also been strengthened as the YNC welcomes Dr. Walavan Sivakumar as the newly elected Chair. Additionally, the YNC has initiated its own NREF grant, the Chris Philips Honor Your Mentor Fund – its aim of advancing medical student mentorship, research, education and participation in organized neurosurgery, particularly for students who would otherwise lack access. To date, they have secured 44 unique donors and almost $100,000 in pledged funding! You can read more about the fund and find the link to donate here: https://www.nref.org/ways-to-give/Honor-Your-Mentor-Funds/YNC-Chris-Philips-Fund

The YNC remains hopeful that safe in-person meetings will resume this year. The AANS/CNS Tumor Section Young Neurosurgeons Reception remains scheduled for Monday, October 18, in Austin, Texas, at the CNS meeting with a keynote presentation by Dr. Jennifer Moliterno Gunel.

We look forward to seeing everyone there. Stay Safe.