Glen Brindley Mentorship Program

Program Overview

The Glen Brindley Mentorship Program is a mentoring initiative within the Christian Ophthalmology Society designed to connect experienced ophthalmologists with younger medical students, residents, fellows, and early-career physicians. The program was named after Dr. Glen Brindley, a founding member of the COS who mentored many ophthalmologists throughout his career both professionally and spiritually.

Historical Background

• Dr. Glen Brindley was a board member of the COS for many years and a huge supporter of the society
• He passed away on August 1, 2018
• The board recommended naming the mentor program after him to honor his legacy of mentoring physicians to become excellent ophthalmologists and better followers of Christ
• Dr. Brindley was a recipient of the J Lawton Smith Award in 2002, recognizing his lifetime commitment to serving the Lord through medical excellence and missionary dedication

Program Goals

The program aims to demonstrate the younger generation the qualities of:

• Servant leadership
• Transparency
• Humbleness
• Faithfulness

The mentoring relationship draws on biblical principles, with Jesus mentoring his disciples as the foundational model.

Eligibility

Mentors:

• Experienced ophthalmologists willing to mentor younger colleagues
• Experienced in both professional and spiritual mentoring
• Examples: Dr. Glen Brindley mentored physicians on both clinical excellence and Christian discipleship

Mentees:

• Young medical students
• Residents in ophthalmology training
• Fellows in ophthalmic subspecialties
• Early-career ophthalmologists

Program Structure

• Formal matching process between mentors and mentees
• Ongoing relationship development with discussion frameworks and activities
• Spiritual and professional development focus
• Annual meeting participation - Mentors and mentees are encouraged to connect at the COS Annual Summer Meeting

Key Focus Areas

Spiritual Development:

• Understanding idolatry and true Christian faith
• Developing a life centered on God rather than career success or material gain
• Examining personal values and what drives decision-making
• Finding fulfillment and meaning through faith

Professional Development:

• Clinical excellence in ophthalmology
• Academic influence and contributions
• Practice management
• Ethical medical practice

Personal Character Development:

• Being a better spouse/partner
• Family relationships
• Work-life balance
• Integrity and transparency

Contact Information

Christian Ophthalmology Society Inc

• Phone: +(269) 697-1267
• Address: 50 Martin Circle | Paducah, KY 42001
• Website: cosw.org

Background on Program Philosophy

The program utilizes resources such as Tim Keller's "Counterfeit Gods" sermon on "Idols of the Heart" to facilitate meaningful discussions between mentors and mentees about life priorities, spiritual foundations, and Christian faith in medical practice.

How to Participate

For Mentees (Students/Residents/Fellows):

1. Express Interest: Indicate your interest in finding a mentor through the program
2. Complete Application Form: Fill out the mentor program form on the COS website (referenced as form 82 on their system)
3. Provide Information: Include your background, training level, specialty interests, and mentoring goals
4. Await Matching: The COS will work to match you with an appropriate mentor
5. Begin Relationship: Connect with your matched mentor and establish regular communication

For Mentors (Experienced Ophthalmologists):

1. Volunteer to Mentor: Indicate your willingness to serve as a mentor through the program
2. Complete Application Form: Fill out the mentor program form on the COS website
3. Provide Background: Share your experience, specialties, and what you're willing to mentor on
4. Await Matching: The COS will match you with appropriate mentee(s)
5. Establish Mentoring Relationship: Connect with your mentee and develop the relationship

Recommended Mentoring Framework

Structured Discussion Activity:

1. Watch Together: Both mentor and mentee watch the first 27 minutes of Tim Keller's "Counterfeit Gods" sermon on "Idols of the Heart"
2. Discuss the Following Questions:
   • What thing, if you lost it, could almost mean that you would lose the will to live?
   • What thing if you lost it, meant all significance and value would be drained out of your life?
   • What are some of the most prominent idols you see in our culture?
   • What are the idols you struggle with as it pertains to your career as an ophthalmologist?
   • How do you recognize the symptoms of idolatry in your life?
   • What is my worst nightmare – what thing if absent from my life would almost take away my very desire to live?
   • What is FUNCTIONALLY most important to you (beyond what you say is important)?
   • Where do you spend your money and time?
   • Whose approval is most important to you (parents, spouse, society, or God)?
3. Ongoing Communication: Schedule regular meetings (frequency determined by mentor/mentee agreement)

Contact/Application Information

• Website: cosw.org
• Phone: +(269) 697-1267
• Address: 50 Martin Circle | Paducah, KY 42001
• Online Form: Available on the Glen Brindley Mentorship Program page

Program Resources

• Video sermon: Tim Keller - "Counterfeit Gods: Idols of the Heart"
• Discussion questions provided
• Annual COS Meeting opportunities for mentor/mentee connection