Clinical Congress Then and Now: Convocation

The Convocation ceremony at the American College of Surgeons Annual Clinical Congress has remained remarkably the same over its 94-year history. Established as a way to welcome new members into Fellowship in the College in a way befitting its prestige as one of the premier associations of surgeons in the world, the Convocation was patterned after that of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. The pomp and majesty accompanying the conferring of Fellowship on successful initiates is a memorable experience for all, documented in family archives by photos with proud family members. As each of the surgeons participating in the ceremonies subscribes to the Fellowship pledge he or she joins thousands who have participated over the years, a number which has nearly doubled from roughly 700 Fellowships conferred in the early years of its history to over approximately 1,200 new Fellows admitted into ACS Fellowship recent years.

For more information on the history of the convocation ceremonies, including the history of the pledge, visit the ACS Archives.

ACS Archives Highlights is a series showcasing the vibrant history of the American College of Surgeons, its members, and the history of surgery. For further information on our featured highlights, search the Archives Catalog or contact the ACS Archivist.