August is here, and momentum is building at ASBN! From powerful moments at the NMA Annual Meeting to the success of our first-ever Art Auction, we’re continuing to elevate Black excellence in neurosurgery. This month, we’re keeping the energy high with open Virtual Office Hours, mentorship initiatives, and ways for members to get involved and stay connected.



Let’s keep pushing forward—together.

Are you on a committee?

Deadline to Join Extended: August 15th

We’re entering an exciting new chapter—and we want YOU at the table.

ASBN subcommittees are where ideas become impact, and we’re inviting students, residents, and attending physicians to step up and help shape the future of neurosurgery.

Our subcommittees focus on:

• Recruitment
• Service & Communications
• Finance
• Residents
• Research
• Events
• Senior Advisory
• Global Neurosurgery

This year, we’re introducing a range of meaningful initiatives aimed at connection, growth, and community impact.

Sign-ups are now open through Friday, August 15, 2025.

This is your chance to lead, build, and serve—together.

Join a committee today!

The Brain Trust: Virtual Mentorship Hours

Your journey, their experience — bridging the gap from aspiration to application.

We kicked off our inaugural session with past ASBN President, Dr. Nnenna Mbabuike and Dr. William W. Ashley who connected one-on-one with four students throughout the day. “It was a really great experience,” said Dr. Mbabuike. “I think the students appreciated having a space to ask questions and explore what a future in neurosurgery could look like.”

This initiative offers students a unique opportunity to book a 30-minute Zoom session with an ASBN neurosurgeon to ask questions, seek personalized guidance, and gain insight into the neurosurgery pathway — from early interest through residency and beyond.

Next in our Brain Trust series, Dr. Cargill H. Alleyne will be available for one-on-one mentorship happening today Friday, September 12, from 2 PM to 4 PM.

Please note: Spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Only verified U.S.-based ASBN student members are eligible. These 2-hour mentorship blocks are open to students who were not matched with a mentor in our formal NeuroMentoring Matters pod program, as well as new students looking to connect.

Representation Matters: Tackling Minority Mental Health Through Visibility in Medicine

For Black Americans, mental health disparities remain a persistent challenge—rooted in systemic inequities, limited access to culturally competent care, and a severe lack of representation in the healthcare workforce.

At the American Society of Black Neurosurgeons (ASBN), we recognize that one of the most powerful ways to close these gaps is through representation. When Black patients see Black physicians, trust grows, communication improves, and care outcomes rise. Representation isn't just important—it saves lives.

The Data Speaks: Mental Health Disparities in the Black Community

• 1 in 3 Black adults who need mental health care receive it. (Source: NAMI)
• Black Americans are less likely to receive guideline-consistent care and more likely to use emergency rooms or primary care rather than mental health specialists.(Source: American Psychiatric Association)
• In 2022, suicide was the third leading cause of death for Black or African Americans ages 10 to 24. (Source: HHS)
• Despite representing over 13% of the U.S. population, Black physicians make up only 5.7% of active physicians and less than 2% of neurosurgeons. (Source: NIH 2023)

This stark underrepresentation affects both the delivery and perception of care. When mental health providers do not reflect the communities they serve, cultural misunderstandings can lead to misdiagnoses, stigma, and inadequate treatment.

Nominations Close August 18th

Are you a rising 4th-year medical student passionate about neurosurgery? ASBN is awarding $1,500 to two exceptional students for their achievements in neurosurgical research. Awardees will be honored at our Annual Dinner during the CNS Meeting.

Time is running out—apply by August 18 to be considered.

Make your mark. Be part of the legacy.

Meeting of the Minds & More: ASBN’s Week at NMA

We came. We connected. We built something powerful.

ASBN was proud to be part of this year’s NMA Scientific Meeting, but the real magic happened at our Meeting of the Minds Mixer—a space filled with energy, purpose, and possibility.

From first-time attendees to seasoned members, the room was buzzing with meaningful conversations and authentic connections. A huge thank-you to Medtronic for sponsoring this unforgettable event!

We also proudly recognize the brilliance of our members who delivered impactful presentations during NMA:

• Dr. Ernest Barthelemy
• Dr. Sonia Eden
• Dr. Lindsey Ross

We left energized, inspired, and more united than ever. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Hear From Our Members