The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) welcomes and embraces all CT surgeons, trainees, and affiliated colleagues as valued members of our organization. We believe the growing diversity of our membership strengthens our specialty and our ability to care for our patients.
We have come a long way in recent years to improve the diversity of our specialty and the STS, but there is much more to do.
Comments made in the Presidential Address by outgoing STS President John Calhoon were inconsistent with STS’s core values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Calhoon’s statements reflected his personal beliefs and not those of the STS.
The STS apologizes for these remarks. We know these comments were hurtful and we regret the pain they have caused to so many valued colleagues.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central principles of our Society, and what we strive for in our profession and our practice. STS is committed to learning from this experience and taking action to reinforce our commitment to these values.