The Anesthesia History Association Announces the
2027 C. Ronald Stephen, M.D. Anesthesia History Essay Contest
with the Brad Smith, M.D. Prize
To Program Directors of Anesthesiology Residency and Fellowship Training:
To American Society of Anesthesiologists Department Chairs:
To American Society of Anesthesiologists Resident Component Officers:
To American Society of Anesthesiologists Medical Student Component Officers:
In 1905 George Santayana famously said, “those who do not study history are condemned to repeat it.” Members of the Anesthesia History Association (AHA) would add that every anesthesiologist has an obligation to understand the history of the progress of anesthesia practice and technology as part of our claim to be professionals.
One of the most accomplished and revered professionals in the history of anesthesiology was Dr. C. Ronald Stephen. Dr. Stephens was an esteemed clinician, investigator, and mentor, as well as an early leader in the effort to preserve and teach the history of anesthesia.
In his honor and memory, the AHA established the annual C. Ronald Stephen Anesthesia History Essay Contest, which is open to all medical students and physicians who write an essay of 2500 words or less during medical school, residency, or fellowship. Two writers will be invited to present their topic at the annual AHA conference and will be awarded $1,500.00 to facilitate travel to the meeting.
The C. Ronald Stephens Essay presentation is one of the highlights of the annual AHA meeting, which will be held October 21-23, 2027, in Madison, WI. The winner and their guest will receive complimentary registration to the conference and its associated activities. The winners may fund remaining travel costs with their award money.
Entries can be on any topic related to the history of anesthesiology, including subspecialties like pain medicine and critical care. Formatting and submission information can be found here. Please review these requirements; email anesthesiology@ou.edu with questions. Entries should be sent as a Word document to anesthesiology@ou.edu by November 30th, 2026.
Please share this educational experience by announcing the 2027 C. Ronald Stephen, M.D. Anesthesia History Essay Contest to your medical students, residents, and fellows.
Thank you for your interest and participation in this annual event!
Sincerely,
Alberto de Armendi, M.D.
President, AHA
alberto.j.dearmendi@gmail.com
Kaitlyn J. Kulesus, D.O.
Chair, C. Ronald Stephen, M.D. Anesthesia History Contest Committee
kaitlyn-kulesus@ou.edu