The Society of Black Academic Surgeons membership survey: Insights on demographics, engagement, and opportunities for improvement.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Society of Black Academic Surgeons (SBAS) sought to understand who constitutes its membership and obtain feedback to improve the organization. METHODS: SBAS conducted a 25-question survey amongst members. RESULTS: The response rate was 19 â€‹% (n â€‹= â€‹132/685) with an even gender breakdown (male n â€‹= â€‹64, female n â€‹= â€‹68). The majority identified as Black or African American (85 â€‹%), followed by White (12 â€‹%). Fifty-two percent identified as trainees, while the rest were practicing surgeons specializing in burn/trauma/critical care (19 â€‹%), oncology (19 â€‹%), and general surgery (13 â€‹%). Half joined SBAS within the last 3 years. Satisfaction was reported at a mean of 3.7/5. Lack of awareness (41 â€‹%), time (13 â€‹%), or interest (5 â€‹%) limited committee participation. Networking (83 â€‹%), mentorship/sponsorship/allyship (71 â€‹%), and leadership development (46 â€‹%) were most valued benefits with job boards, webinars, and grants least valuable. CONCLUSION: SBAS is a unique organization uniting both new and lifetime members and opportunities exist to enhance current membership and improve participation.