The Rodman E. Sheen and Thomas G. Sheen Award

The Rodman E. Sheen and Thomas G. Sheen Award

Award Amount: $25,000

Established: 1968

Geographic Scope: United States

Background

The award has been presented annually by the beneficiaries of a trust fund. The Bank of America, N.A., in Providence, Rhode Island, serves as the Trustee under the Will of Thomas G. Sheen with responsibility to administer a perpetual trust. In 1938, Thomas G. Sheen, a well-known tailor, clothier, and real estate professional in Atlantic City, created this philanthropic legacy to honor doctors who have made outstanding contributions to mankind through the fields of medicine and medical research.

The award was inspired by a deep affection for Dr. Rodman E. Sheen, a radiologist and pioneer in the medical use of Roentgen rays, who was injured during his research when a Roentgen tube exploded in his lab. Dr. Sheen died in 1937 at age 47.

Selection Process

A local New Jersey committee known as the Sheen Advisory Committee makes the final selection. This advisory committee is comprised of physicians from the southern New Jersey region, comprised of half surgeons and half physicians representing other medical specialties.

Administrative History:

1968-1981: Administered by the American Medical Association

1982-Present: Administered by the American College of Surgeons' Honors Committee

The Honors Committee submits the names of three nominees in order of preference. Nominations are also received from members of the Sheen Advisory Committee and from the American College of Physicians.

Eligibility Criteria

Nominees should:
• Be on the frontiers of medical science doing work that has great promise
• Be currently involved in teaching and research in medicine
• Not be retired or semi-retired

Contact

For questions, contact the ACS Honors Committee or visit the nomination page.

Website: https://www.facs.org/about-acs/governance/acs-committees/honors-committee/sheen-award/