2026 Nina Starr Braunwald Extraordinary Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery (EWCTS) Awards

Nominations open Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025!

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) and Women in Thoracic Surgery (WTS) co-sponsor the Nina Starr Braunwald Extraordinary Women in Cardiothoracic Surgery Award to recognize women surgeons who have demonstrated excellence in clinical practice and made significant contributions to the specialty, as well as individuals who have championed women in cardiothoracic surgery. The award honors achievements in clinical practice, leadership, mentorship, and advocacy. Nominees may embody one or more of the following characteristics:

• Excellence and/or innovation in clinical practice (academic or non-academic practice)
• Leadership for our specialty and/or the population we serve including notable public service
• Mentorship/sponsorship of others in the specialty including students, trainees, and peers
• Exceptional advocacy on behalf of the specialty, our patient population, or fellow surgeons/trainees
• Demonstrate integrity, innovation, creativity, and expertise in carrying out day-to-day professional responsibilities  

The EWCTS Award will be presented during the 2026 STS Annual Meeting, during a special breakfast on Thursday, Jan. 29, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Tickets for the event will be available through Annual Meeting registration.)