Jeffrey B. Matthews, MD
The Society of University Surgeons (SUS) established the Lifetime Achievement Award (LTAA) in 2004 to acknowledge exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to surgical science, education, mentorship, and demonstrated unwavering support for the SUS mission. The LTAA is the highest honor bestowed upon those in the field of academic surgery, and past recipients are true representatives of the pinnacle in their profession.
In 2023, the SUS LTAA was awarded to Dr. Jeffrey B. Matthews, who previously served as the SUS President and is a renowned surgeon at the University of Chicago. Dr. Matthews’ peers selected him for this prestigious award from a highly competitive slate of nominees. In a magnificent ceremony, Dr. John Alverdy introduced Dr. Matthews, presenting a collage of representative quotes from his mentees and friends. They described him as someone who “is not afraid of making necessary changes,” a true visionary in the field of surgery.
Dr. Matthews received the LTAA award with profound humility and gratitude. He attributed his success to the steadfast support of his early mentors, including Dr. William Silen, Dr. Leslie H. Blumgart, and Dr. James L. Madara, and to the team of exceptionally talented individuals who helped build the Department of Surgery at the University of Chicago. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Matthews emphasized his commitment to the SUS and the importance of the society’s role in supporting leaders in academic surgery.
The SUS LTAA award is a true testament to Dr. Matthews’ excellence in surgical science, education, and mentorship, and a reminder of the importance of his contributions to the field. Dr. Matthews’ indefatigable support for the SUS mission has solidified his position as a luminary in academic surgery and an inspiration to those who aspire to achieve greatness in the field.
