ASCRS Member Dr. Alexander Hawkins, a colorectal surgeon and Associate Professor of Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, recently represented the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) as the traveling fellow at the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI) Annual Meeting. 

During the conference, Dr. Hawkins delivered a presentation titled "Decision Making in Diverticulitis: Adding Science to Art," sharing his expertise with international colleagues in the field of colorectal surgery. 

The Traveling Fellow program, organized by ASCRS, aims to strengthen relationships between international partners in the colorectal specialty. This initiative seeks to expand knowledge and broaden educational opportunities for surgeons worldwide, ultimately improving patient care on a global scale. 

In a reciprocal exchange, the ASCRS International Committee offers several international travel awards for surgeons to attend the ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting. This year, Dr. Elaine Burns attended the 2024 ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting in Baltimore, MD as a traveling fellow, furthering the goal of international collaboration. 


Dr. Hawkins took the opportunity to connect with Dr. Burns while in Wales, capturing a moment that symbolizes the growing network of international expertise in the specialty.  


These exchanges between ASCRS and ACPGBI highlight the ongoing efforts to foster global cooperation and knowledge sharing in colorectal surgery, benefiting both medical professionals and  patients alike.