Appointment of Dr. Leah Backhus as
Inaugural Director of Faculty Development

Dear Colleagues,

It is a great privilege and pleasure to announce the appointment of Leah Backhus, MD, MPH, Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, as the inaugural Director of Faculty Development within our Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

As the Director of Faculty Development, Dr. Backhus will oversee a range of initiatives to support and advance the professional growth of our faculty members. Drawing on her deep experience in this area, she will champion departmental efforts related to academic advancement, identify mentorship and educational opportunities, enhance the well-being of our faculty, and leverage resources and connections across campus to serve our faculty. Her responsibilities will extend beyond the department, where she will contribute to strategic discussions concerning faculty tenure and promotion processes within the School of Medicine.

The position also will benefit from her new appointment as a member of the School of Medicine Appointments & Promotions (A&P) Committee, an advisory group reporting directly to Dean Lloyd Minor and Vice Dean Dr. Linda Boxer. This committee plays an important role in reviewing and assessing academic credentials for appointment, reappointment, and promotion of faculty. Dr. Backhus's acceptance to the A&P Committee is a testament to the depth and breadth of her expertise, making her well-positioned for the Director of Faculty Development role.

Since joining our department in 2015, Dr. Backhus has consistently distinguished herself as a highly regarded surgeon, researcher, and educator. She practices at the Stanford main hospital and is the Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care. Additionally, she directs the Stanford Adult Chest Wall Surgery Program and co-directs the Thoracic Surgery Clinical Research Program.

An experienced thoracic surgeon, Dr. Backhus maintains an active clinical practice and frequently operates on patients with lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and chest wall conditions. In addition to her clinical commitments, she actively engages in impactful research and has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on thoracic surgery, lung cancer, and patient outcomes.

Dr. Backhus has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, with a strong focus on collaboration, compassion, and well-being among her peers and colleague. She has also been in the role of the Department Well-Being Director, serving as a liaison with the School of Medicine WellMD Program and helping our team address key priorities and lead efforts to improve the overall well-being of our faculty.

She has received numerous awards and is actively involved in shaping the training and education for organized thoracic surgery groups nationally and internationally. She was the first faculty member from our department to receive the 2019 Dwight C. McGoon Teaching Award, the most prestigious national award recognizing excellence in the education and training of residents. Most recently, she received the inaugural 2023 Extraordinary Women of Cardiothoracic Surgery Award from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and Women in Thoracic Surgery.

We are thrilled by Dr. Backhus's achievements and look forward to having her assume the new roles in our department and the School of Medicine.

Please join us in congratulating her.

Sincerely,

Joseph Woo, MD
Norman E. Shumway Professor and Chair
Stanford Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery