The Surgeon of the Future: Anchoring Innovation and Science with Moral Values

·         Professionalism exemplified through the highest standards of honesty, responsibility, respect, and accountability.

·         Excellence demonstrated as the desire to exceed internal and external standards and expectations and the relentless pursuit of perfection. 

·         Innovation through the pursuit of creative and forward-thinking improvements to transform what we do for the better.

·         Introspection manifested through continuous self-improvement, professional development, self-assessment, and self-awareness.

·         Inclusion centered on the active engagement of all appropriate individuals and entities to collaboratively harness collective intelligence and creativity.

The value of inclusion in today’s world cannot be overemphasized.  We must respect, embrace, and celebrate all cultures and incorporate our differences in our design of new things to improve creativity and respond to the needs of all. At the same time, we must stay true to ourselves and our own beliefs.  Respecting and embracing others is best done when we respect ourselves and our values. The ACS is striving to embrace and collaborate with other like-minded organizations.  It is only by gathering the minds and the energy of all involved that we shall succeed as a profession and as a society.

Many challenges lie ahead, but we can face them and succeed by working together, trusting ourselves, and embracing necessary change. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your President during this exciting, transformative time.

Dr. Pellegrini is President of the American College of Surgeons.