Groundbreaking Achievement in Neurosurgery
Dr. Nancy Abu-Bonsrah has made history as the first African-American woman to graduate from Johns Hopkins’ prestigious neurosurgery program. This seven-year program, ranked second nationally, accepts only two to five residents annually.
Abu-Bonsrah’s journey began in 2017 when she became the program’s first African-American female resident. Her recent graduation marks a significant milestone in the medical field.
The accomplished neurosurgeon shared her achievement on social media, reflecting on her 12-year journey at Johns Hopkins.
From Ghana to Johns Hopkins: A Remarkable Journey
Born in Ghana, Abu-Bonsrah moved to the United States at age 15. Her path to neurosurgery was paved with determination and academic excellence.
At Johns Hopkins, she explored clinical interests in neurosurgery, neurotrauma, and neurosurgical capacity building. Her focus extended to low and middle-income countries, including her native Ghana.
Abu-Bonsrah’s academic achievements include a Doctor of Medicine in 2017 and a Master of Public Health in 2022. She has co-authored over 70 peer-reviewed articles.
Mentorship and Education: Pillars of Success
Abu-Bonsrah credits her success to mentors and educators at Johns Hopkins and Mount St. Mary’s University. She expressed particular gratitude to Dr. Christine McCauslin for unwavering support.
“I’m especially grateful for the mentorship from Dr. Christine McCauslin during my time at the Mount,” Abu-Bonsrah stated. She also acknowledged several science faculty members who encouraged her throughout her journey.
These mentorship relationships played a crucial role in shaping Abu-Bonsrah’s career and fueling her aspirations in neurosurgery.
Awards and Recognition: A Testament to Excellence
Throughout her residency, Abu-Bonsrah garnered numerous accolades. Her achievements include the Neurosurgeon Research and Education Foundation (NREF) Directed Residency Scholarship and the Irving J. Sherman Traveling Fellowship Award.
In 2022, she was a finalist for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Public Health Practice Awards. The following year, she won the Louise Eisenhardt Award from the Hopkins Neurosurgery Department.
These honors reflect Abu-Bonsrah’s exceptional skills and dedication to her field.
Future Aspirations: Giving Back to Ghana
Abu-Bonsrah’s ambitions extend beyond personal success. She aims to contribute to sustainable surgical infrastructure in Ghana.
“I hope to be able to go back to Ghana over the course of my career,” she told CNN in 2017. Her goal is to serve her community through quality surgical care and mentorship.
Currently, Dr. Abu-Bonsrah is working at UPMC Williamsport Hospital, beginning a new chapter in her illustrious career.
