About Dr. Leslie Kohman
Dr. Leslie J. Kohman is a pioneering thoracic surgeon whose career has spanned over four decades. Based in Syracuse, New York, she has held numerous leadership roles at SUNY Upstate Medical University, including Medical Director of the Upstate Cancer Center and Chief Wellness Officer. A nationally recognized expert in lung cancer and thoracic oncology, Dr. Kohman has been a tireless advocate for physician wellness and career development.
In 1986, Dr. Kohman founded Women in Thoracic Surgery (WTS) by organizing the first informal gathering of female thoracic surgeons at the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Annual Meeting. From just eight attendees, WTS has grown into a vibrant organization dedicated to mentorship, education, and advocacy for women in cardiothoracic surgery. Dr. Kohman served as the first president of WTS and remains a guiding force in its mission to support women throughout their surgical careers and beyond.
Scholarship Overview
The WTS Kohman Scholarship supports women cardiothoracic surgeons as they explore meaningful transitions beyond the operating room. Inspired by Dr. Kohman’s own fulfilling post-surgical career, this award encourages recipients to pursue personal and professional growth through activities such as:
• Career coaching
• Certification or board exam preparation
• Academic coursework or degrees
• Creative or entrepreneurial endeavors
• Other innovative transition pathways
Each recipient will receive $10,000 to support their chosen activity. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Interested applicants looking for assistance in identifying their professional growth activity may reach out to WTS to be paired with Senior WTS Mentors for personalized guidance and support with their application.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be an active member of WTS
- Be a practicing thoracic surgeon with a primary focus in cardiothoracic surgery
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application packet including:
- Essay Responses:
- Why are you interested in transitioning out of surgery?
- What ideas or plans do you have for your next career step?
- Current CV
- Letter of Support from the applicant’s Division Chief or equivalent (required only if time off is needed):
Post-Award Requirements
Before funds are disbursed, recipients must provide documentation of acceptance into the selected program or activity and anticipated dates of completion. Recipients may choose to remain anonymous.
For questions, please email help@wtsnet.org.