Background for The Aesthetic Society Inclusion and Diversity Statement
The Aesthetic Society has been proactive in its pursuit of diversity and inclusion within our ranks as evidenced by the global and culturally diverse representation within our leadership. Our past presidents include those of Brazilian, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Puerto Rican, and Latin American heritage. Furthermore, over 10 years ago (2011) a concerted initiative was made to increase female leadership within our society, including female educators, symposia chairs, and committee chair participation, as well as within our Executive Leadership. In The Aesthetic Society, the pathway to participation in educational and organizational leadership is merit-based yet inclusive, as we strive to represent our current membership and expand our future membership to meet the needs of the diverse fabric that makes up the global specialty of aesthetic surgery and medicine.
The Aesthetic Society Inclusion and Diversity Statement
The Aesthetic Society is committed to diversity by fostering an inclusive culture for the purpose of providing the gold standard in aesthetic education.
The Aesthetic Society Guiding Principles/Values
- Education: Excellence in education of the science and techniques of aesthetic plastic surgery.
- Leadership: Commitment to global leadership in the field of aesthetic plastic surgery.
- Collaboration: A collaborative environment with our research foundation (ASERF), other national and international societies, industry, and regulatory bodies.
- Inclusion: An authentic commitment to diversity and an inclusive culture to nurture the future generation of aesthetic plastic surgeons.
- Meritocracy: Volunteerism based on meritocracy, and achievement as a transparent pathway of ascent to leadership which is also intentionally representative of the diversity of our membership.
- Mentorship: Mentorship and early pipeline outreach as a means to pay it forward, to ensure the relevance of our Society, and to reach underrepresented yet qualified prospective member surgeons.
- Respect: Respect for all our plastic surgeon colleagues with tolerance and appreciation for our differences, commonalities, and our opinions.
- Safety: Commitment to the safety of all aesthetic patients through education and professional communications; an enduring passion for the advancement of the specialty.
- Family: Embracement of our Aesthetic Society family and our own individual families with gratitude, compassion, and grace as we grow and learn together.
Adopted by the Board of Directors – November 2, 2021