Fellowships
Since its inception, Operation Smile has been committed to the development of future leaders, professionals that will take the work of the organization into their communities in the future, engaging not only their colleagues but also and as importantly, representatives from different sectors of the local society. Long term fellowships in Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery provided the first program that led to the training of professionals from China, Colombia, the Philippines, Nicaragua, Vietnam, and Palestine. Many years after completing their fellowships, these individuals, now in positions of leadership within their communities, continue serving the children. Today, thanks to generous contributions from organization’s supporters, Operation Smile offers great opportunities for the upcoming generation.The Regan Fellowship seeks to engage and support young medical professionals by offering resident physicians the opportunity to participate in the life changing work of Operation Smile. Made possible by invaluable donor support, residents in Plastic Surgery, Pediatrics and Anesthesiology are invited to attend an international medical mission and work under the supervision and mentorship of veteran Operation Smile physicians. These residents also participate in Operation Smile research initiatives while on the mission, moving forward research projects that will allow for better treatment and prevention of cleft lip/cleft palate. Another valuable part of this program is the opportunity for residents to network with one another, sharing their visions, ideas, and experiences at an annual conference of Regan Fellows. For more information on the Regan Fellowship Program, contact Mark Beers at
Another such initiative is the Operation Smile-Chang Gung Hospital Tsao Fellowship Program. Young professionals from all over the world have the opportunity soon after completing their specialty training to enroll in fellowship training at the prestigious Chang Gung Hospital and University in Taiwan. Current 12-month offerings include Microsurgery, Craniofacial Surgery, Pediatric Anesthesia and Pediatric Intensive Care. Thanks to the vision of this program’s benefactor, the program extends beyond the actual training in Taiwan and includes faculty visits for continued mentorship. For more information on the Chang Gung Fellowship Program, please contact Maria de la Torre at
