Our 125th Anniversary
The American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year!
Founded in 1899 by Joseph Mathews, the Society has matured into a self-managed organization that was the culmination of the vision, dedication and hard work of many amazing members and leaders. The members of ASCRS have transformed the practice of colon and rectal surgery, impacted how we educate our trainees and members, and expanded the influence of colon and rectal surgery on the national and international stage.
Throughout 2024, the Society will be celebrating this milestone anniversary a number of ways:
- A special 125th Anniversary Campaign. Read more here.
- Special Gut Check podcast episodes dedicated to reflecting on how far the profession has come and where we're headed next.
- Video interviews with the changemakers of the Society and profession.
- An updated History of ASCRS book that picks up where the last book left off and covers the last 25 years of the Society and the profession.
- Reflect with ASCRS Past Presidents through video interviews availabe to members. Note: you must be logged in to view.
- A dedicated symposium at the 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting where speakers and presenters will explore the past, present, and future of both the Society and the field of colon and rectal surgery.
- A literal "walk down memory lane" in the Innovation Center at the 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting that will document the 125-year legacy of ASCRS and colon and rectal surgery.
Vision Statement
To be the premier and most inclusive colorectal society improving patient care through education, professional development and innovation.
Mission Statement
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is a community of health care professionals who are dedicated to advancing patient care for diverse populations through the understanding, prevention and treatment of disorders of the colon, rectum and anus.
Core Values:
- Advocacy: Advocate for the highest quality patient care for colon and rectal disorders
- Education and Training: Promote the lifelong education and training of professionals interested in the diseases and conditions of the colon, rectum and anus.
- Professionalism: Foster an environment of diversity, transparency and collegiality.
- Stewardship of the Profession: Responsible for supporting the profession through advanced teachings for colon and rectal professionals.
- High Quality Patient Care: Provide and support evidence-based, value-driven patient and family-centered compassionate care.
- Innovation: Embrace innovate approaches to delivering patient care, education and training.
- Research: Promote timely, relevant research that advances the field of colon and rectal surgery resulting in improved patient care.
- Collaboration: Support and promote collaboration with individuals, professionals, and organizations involved in patient care.
Membership
ASCRS offers several types of membership designed to elevate your career and specialty. Join your colleagues and discover the advantages of networking with your peers and attending educational events designed for the colon and rectal surgeon. ASCRS is committed to helping its members achieve this goal through a robust and expanding set of member benefits.
History
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons was established in 1899. Its initial mission was to facilitate the dissemination of knowledge relating to the colon, rectum, and anus; to encourage proctologic research; and to advance the specialty of colon and rectal surgery. Colon and rectal surgery is one of the oldest recognized specialties. Writings dating as early as 1250 B.C. dealt with anorectal diseases and indicate there were practitioners devoted to this specialty. Read more about our history.
Leadership
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons is governed by an elected Executive Council.
Strategic Plan
The current ASCRS Strategic Plan created by the Executive Council determines our priorities and objectives, defines responsibilities and measures and evaluates results.
Members must login to view the plan here.