Kim Burchiel, M.D., recently took over as the president of the Society of Neurological Surgeons (SNS).

The SNS is the oldest, most prestigious neurosurgical organization in the world, and is comprised of department chairs, residency program directors, and other neurosurgical leaders from North America and around the world. Founded by Harvey Cushing in 1920, it is considered to be the neurosurgical "education society."

Dr. Burchiel is the first Oregon Neurosurgeon to be President of the SNS and he is 86th lineal to founder Harvey Cushing. He was secretary of the society from 2008-2012.

The society held its first meeting in 1920. The 2011 meeting was hosted by Dr. Burchiel in Portland.

• Learn more about the society and its history here.