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It is with sadness that the Society of Thoracic Surgeons shares the news of the passing of Dr. John Benfield, past president of STS (1995-1996), and a distinguished leader in our specialty.

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Dr. Benfield was an accomplished thoracic surgeon, educator, and mentor whose contributions have left a lasting impact on cardiothoracic surgery worldwide. 

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Columbia University in 1952 and his medical degree from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in 1955. He went on to hold senior leadership positions at several major academic institutions, including Professor of Surgery Emeritus at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). 

During his term as STS President, Dr. Benfield championed many initiatives that shaped the Society’s future, including:

• Strengthening STS advocacy efforts in Washington
• Expanding the STS National Database to improve quality and patient outcomes
• Promoting ethics and professionalism in cardiothoracic surgery
• Enhancing education and mentorship programs for the next generation of surgeons

Dr. Benfield is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his deep commitment to mentorship and education. He endowed The John and Joyce Benfield Lecture, an annual event at his alma mater, the University of Chicago. This lecture continues to inspire generations of surgeons to this day.

Please join us in remembering Dr. Benfield and honoring his remarkable life and contributions to STS and the specialty.

Thriving in and out of the OR requires more than clinical expertise—it takes intentional care of your mental, physical, financial, and interpersonal well-being. The STS Wellness Institute, a five-part virtual program, provides practical tools to support whole-person wellness and empowers participants to bring these strategies back to their institutions, extending their impact across the healthcare community.

In this first of five sessions, taking place on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, 8–9 p.m. ET, hear from leading cardiothoracic surgeons and experienced financial advisors who understand the unique financial landscape of medical professionals. Each stage of your career, from training through retirement, comes with distinct challenges and opportunities. The session offers tailored insights to help you navigate them all.

Here's a sneak peek at what you’ll learn:

1. Your Financial Needs Change Over Time
   Financial priorities evolve throughout a medical career. What matters most early on—such as paying off student loans or setting up a budget—can shift significantly as you progress into mid-career or begin preparing for retirement.

   Understanding where you are in your professional journey allows you to focus on the financial decisions that matter most at each stage. This session will help you build a strong foundation for long-term financial planning and retirement, while highlighting why a tailored approach is essential.

2. Proactive Planning Builds Stability and Confidence
   Many physicians fall into the trap of waiting until a crisis—or major life transition—to start thinking seriously about money. You’ll learn how proactive financial planning can reduce stress, prevent costly mistakes, and help you feel more in control, both personally and professionally.

   Whether it’s working with a financial advisor, creating a savings strategy, or simply becoming more informed, taking early and consistent action makes all the difference over time.

3. Financial Health Supports Overall Well-Being
   Money affects nearly every part of life—from your relationships to your mental health to your career decisions. Financial strain can be a major source of burnout, while financial confidence can empower you to live and work on your own terms.

Register now for this engaging and practical five-part virtual program.