Newswatch: April 2006

ASTRO begins fellows program

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO of Fairfax, Va) is launching a fellows program to recognize ASTRO members who have made a significant difference to the specialty.

"The fellows program is a great way for ASTRO to recognize and honor those who have given so much to both the field of radiation oncology and the society," said Prabhakar Tripuraneni, MD, chair of the ASTRO board of directors and a radiation oncologist at Scripps Clinic (La Jolla, Calif). "ASTRO has many members who are worthy of this great distinction, and we are pleased to bestow them this honor."

Potential nominees must have been a part of ASTRO for at least 20 years, have served in a leadership role for the organization, and have made a significant contribution in the field of radiation oncology. ASTRO will provide four possible pathways to becoming a fellow: research, patient care, education, and leadership/service. Although the society states that it values contributions to all four areas, nominees must have a truly outstanding contribution to at least one of the pathways to be named a fellow.

The nominations will be reviewed by a nine-member fellows selection committee, which will then make recommendations for final approval to the ASTRO Board of Directors. The first class of ASTRO fellows will be recognized during ASTRO's annual meeting, slated for November 5–9 in Philadelphia. For more information, visit www.astro.org.