Power of One – Impact of Many

Columbia Neurosurgery is proud to share that Dr. E. Sander Connolly was named 2024-25 President-Elect of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS).   "Founded in 1931 as the Harvey Cushing Society, the AANS is a scientific and educational association with more than 12,000 members worldwide. The AANS is dedicated to advancing the specialty of neurological surgery to provide the highest quality of neurosurgical care to the public."

Dr. Connolly will collaborate with luminary neurosurgical leaders in his new role as President-Elect. "Dr. Connolly's focus on fostering unity within our diverse community of neurosurgeons speaks to the heart of what makes the AANS strong — our collective impact," said Jacques Morcos, MD, FAANS, President of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Professor and John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Chair in Neuroscience, in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery at UTHealth Houston. "As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, his emphasis on mentorship, education, and innovation will guide us through the evolving landscape of neurosurgical care, reinforcing AANS's position as a global leader in neurosurgery and inspiring the next generation of neurosurgeons."

Dr. Connolly will also partner with the executive leadership of the AANS at large, including Past President Anthony L. Asher, MD, FAANS, Treasurer Sepideh Amin-Hanjani, MD, FAANS, Vice President Nino Chiocca, MD, PhD and Secretary Aviva Abosch, MD, FAANS. "Dr. Connolly's appointment as president-elect comes at a pivotal time for AANS as we balance our legacy of excellence with a bold vision for innovation," said Katie O. Orrico, JD, CEO of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. "His dedication to collaboration and forward-thinking will be vital in building on the achievements of past leaders while continuing to drive the specialty of neurological surgery forward."

The AANS attempts to balance legacy in excellence and still push the status quo through innovation. Dr. Connolly underscores this commitment and “[looks] forward to stepping into this role, fostering the incredible work of the AANS.  This year's annual theme, 'Power of One – Impact of Many,' truly reflects how we continue to lead in a new world where rapid technological advancements have the potential to improve our patient care. As neurosurgeons prepare to meet the moment, we must collaborate across institutions to instill new best practices while maintaining our unwavering commitment to excellence.” Dr. Connolly continued, "With the help of our Washington Committee, I'm also looking forward to examining the impacts of Prior Authorization and Medicare Payment Reform and how best we can ensure neurosurgeons and physicians in general have a seat at the table and help inform policies that benefit patients, their families as well as how we practice in this field.”

Finally, Dr. Connolly is particularly proud to partner with Columbia Neurosurgery Resident Nina Yoh (PGY-6) who currently serves as Chair of Women in Neurosurgery (WINS) Resident Committee. "Nina will be following other esteemed Columbia residents, Karin Muraszko (President 1992) and Emily Friedman (President 1998) in leading the efforts of this most important AANS section."

We congratulate Dr. Connolly and the AANS Executive Committee on their new roles and look forward to an incredible year celebrating "Power of One—Impact of Many."