Anesthesiology Shows Up: How Anesthesia Residency Programs Stepped Up to Support Diversity at SNMA AMEC

by Mitaire Erhieyovwe, MS4 at Ross University School of Medicine; Ashley Chang-Story, MS4 at Ross University School of Medicine; Oghenewegba Erivwo, MS4 at St. George's University School of Medicine

At a time when efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are under increasing political and institutional scrutiny, anesthesiology is choosing to lean in rather than step back. This year, at the Student National Medical Association’s (SNMA) 2025 Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC), anesthesiology residency programs nationwide made a bold and unified statement: representation matters and diversity in medicine is not up for debate.

More than just showing up as exhibitors, anesthesiology programs came to AMEC as speakers, mentors, advocates, and collaborators. They engaged directly with underrepresented medical students, offering insight into the specialty and creating pathways for connection and mentorship. This presence was not only powerful but intentional. Residents, program directors, and administration attended not only to recruit future leaders in anesthesiology but also to reshape the field into one that reflects the diverse communities it serves.

A Standing Room Only Crowd for Anesthesiology

One of the most electrifying moments of the weekend was the Anesthesiology Q&A Session.  The room reached full capacity-every seat was filled, with students lining the walls and standing in the back. Attendees were eager to learn about the specialty’s training pathways, day to day realities, and what programs truly value in applicants. The energy in the room spoke volumes. The panel featured a program director from Montefiore Einstein and two anesthesiology residents from the University of North Carolina. Each with unique, compelling backgrounds, offering candid insights and personal stories, sharing how they navigated medical school, audition rotations, mentorship, and research. Their message was clear: you don’t have to come from a traditional background to succeed in this field. Anesthesiology needs diverse voices, and there is space for you here. 

Meaningful Interactions Throughout AMEC 

Students received multiple occasions to engage with anesthesiology programs throughout the conference. Three day access to program exhibition booths provided individuals the opportunity to establish rapport, return for additional questions, and potentially instill an impactful connection. Residents and administrative leaders shared direct program experience, informational pamphlets, and even some program branded mementos. Programs like Indiana University had an intubation station for students to practice with tools like fiberoptic intubation with guidance from residents. In addition, several programs sponsored receptions where students could interact in a casual setting. This interaction included food, laughter, and dancing. Representatives from anesthesia programs shared their personal time in various ways throughout AMEC, displaying their intention to engage with the SNMA students.  

A Deliberate Commitment to Inclusion

The strong turnout from anesthesiology programs wasn’t a coincidence; it was a clear, strategic decision. In a climate where DEI initiatives are being questioned or quietly scaled back, anesthesiology is choosing to lead with purpose and inclusivity. This outreach wasn’t just about filling spots. It was about expanding access, building community, and affirming that students from historically excluded backgrounds have a place in the operating room. Programs made it a priority to be present outside the traditional recruitment cycle. That type of visibility builds trust, fosters meaningful relationships, and signals to students that they are actually valued and not just as applicants. That we are future colleagues and change makers.

Looking Ahead

The takeaway from AMEC was undeniable, representation in anesthesiology isn’t a bonus, it’s a necessity. The specialty has so much to offer students who may not have seen themselves reflected in the field before. And with sustained investment in outreach, mentorship, and inclusion, anesthesiology can continue to lead, not just in clinical excellence, but in shaping a more equitable future in medicine. To the students who came with questions, the residents who responded with honesty, and the programs that made space for all of it to happen, thank you. AMEC was a reminder that we belong in every room, including the operating room.