Mentoring Aspiring Program Directors in Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology—Perspectives From Program Directors Around the United States

Fellowship Training in Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology: Navigating the New Educational Landscape as a Result of the Coronavirus Crisis

“…[19][20] This dynamic educational landscape offers multiple opportunities to mentor educational leaders, including aspiring program directors, to develop creative and collaborative solutions for the challenges of the coronavirus crisis for both the graduating and incoming fellows. [19][20][21] The phased response to the crisis intensity at the departmental level will be greatly enhanced with an integrated response from the fellowship leadership. [21][22][23]…”

“…[19][20][21] The phased response to the crisis intensity at the departmental level will be greatly enhanced with an integrated response from the fellowship leadership. [21][22][23]…”

Succession Planning for the Fellowship Program Director: Fortune Favors the Prepared

“…2 Although openings in leadership positions owing to promotion, retirement, or unexpected events can occur, thoughtful succession planning ensures that an appropriate leader is ready to step in and continue the role with minimal disruption to those affected by the change. 1,2 The Program Director for a fellowship is a key leadership role in an academic department, particularly when one considers the pathways of physician entry at an academic medical center, including tracks as a trainee in a fellowship program or as a faculty member.…”

“…4 Although several leadership roles can go unfilled within a department without destabilization, critical leadership functions, including a fellowship program director, cannot go unfilled for very long, as these roles are heavily engaged in vital roles such as recruitment of trainees and faculty, communicating and supporting the mission and vision throughout the department, as well as demonstrating achievement of these goals to the larger institution and beyond. [1][2][3] Successful transitions in the Program Director role rely on understanding all the responsibilities of this role as a leader and manager of fellows, core faculty, the educational content, as well as the operational challenges and opportunities where fellows interact with the clinical learning environment. 5,6 Since fellowship deadlines are not merely suggestions, effective communication between the Program Director and faculty, fellows, regulatory associations, medical center, and alumni is essential for maintaining the high-quality support for the critical mission of a fellowship.…”

“…For Program Director succession at the fellowship level, home-grown associate program directors can be an excellent option because many of these leaders are familiar with the operational and regulatory aspects of training programs. 1 The transition can be particularly smooth if the candidate is internal to the organization. 1,15 However, although internal selection has an ease and appeal that may be the most expedient choice, there is also value in reviewing the outside talent for recruitment to introduce a fresh perspective and vision for program leadership.…”