The Arthur L. Garnes Society and the BRAVE Coalition have announced a strategic partnership to endow the Ferdinand Ofodile Lecture on Diversity in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The organizations aim to raise $100,000 to ensure ongoing discussions about inclusive excellence within the medical specialty.
The lecture honors Dr. Ferdinand Ofodile, a clinical professor at Columbia University and former Chief of Plastic Surgery at Harlem Hospital, which pioneered the first plastic surgery training program at a predominantly Black hospital. Dr. Ofodile was a protégé of Dr. Arthur L. Garnes, after whom the society is named.
Dr. Paris Butler, founding member of The Garnes Society, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, noting that BRAVE's commitment to patient advocacy aligns perfectly with their mission to foster a more equitable environment in surgical fields. The funds raised will support speaker fees, travel expenses, and future program development.
Dr. Christien Grogan, BRAVE Coalition's founder, highlighted the initiative's significance in addressing healthcare disparities. By creating a dedicated lecture series, the organizations aim to promote a more inclusive and representative plastic surgery community that can ultimately benefit patients from diverse backgrounds.
This partnership represents a significant step toward increasing diversity and representation in medical specialties, particularly in plastic and reconstructive surgery. By establishing a sustainable platform for dialogue, the Garnes Society and BRAVE Coalition are working to transform the landscape of medical education and practice.
