
2026 AWSF Awards - Now Open!
Help AWSF recognize exceptional women surgeons and supporters by nominating a deserving individual whose character and accomplishments reflect the mission of AWSF and meet the criteria for the award. Selected awardees will be honored at the AWSF Awards Dinner and Gala on Sunday, September 27, held in conjunction with the AWS 2026 Annual Conference. Award nominations must be submitted by Thursday, May 21at 11:59pm ET.
Women Surgeons in Low & Middle Income Countries Award
This award was established in 2016 to enable a woman surgeon in a low or middle income country to attend a surgical meeting, participate in a workshop or other career development or educational opportunity.
AWS Foundation Grant Application Process
The AWS Foundation offers grants to support women surgeons from low- and middle-income countries in pursuing educational or professional development experiences that advance their surgical knowledge, skills, and/or leadership/administrative capabilities.
Criteria:
- AWS members and non-members can apply.
- Submission of a personal statement/letter outlining the request.
- Submission of a full budget including any additional outside funding required
- Submission of three letters of recommendation attesting to your experience and qualifications.
- Submission of an up-to-date CV/Biosketch.
Each recipient will receive up to $2,000 in travel and lodging reimbursement for the educational opportunity or meeting.
Application Requirements: Applicants must submit the following materials:
- Description of the proposed experience, including its objectives, relevance to professional growth, and anticipated impact.
- Supporting documentation, such as an acceptance or invitation letter from the hosting institution or organization.
- Curriculum Vitae (C.V.) outlining academic and professional background.
- Detailed budget specifying all anticipated expenses and any other sources of funding.
Post-Award Requirements: At the conclusion of the experience, recipients are required to submit:
- A narrative report describing the experience, outcomes, and lessons learned. This report should be suitable for publication on the Foundation’s website or in promotional materials.
- Photographs, if available, to accompany the narrative and illustrate the experience.
Application Deadline: All application materials must be received by September 15 each year.
Starr Research Forum

The Starr Research Forum, named for Dr. Nina Starr Braunwald, is designed to facilitate interaction and idea exchange between students interested in surgery, surgical residents, and faculty members of various institutions. We invite medical students, residents and practicing surgeons to select their best work for presentation at the AWS Annual Conference.
Previous Contest Winners | About Nina Starr Braunwald, MD
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