To be considered for membership, a surgeon must have a proven record of distinction within the field and have made meritorious contributions to the knowledge of cardiothoracic disease and its surgical treatment.
It fosters the education of young cardiothoracic surgeons by providing scholarships and fellowships, and makes special awards to distinguished members.
Recipients of the association's Scientific Achievement Award include John W. Kirklin (1994), Norman E. Shumway (1998), Michael E. DeBakey (1999), Denton A. Cooley (2000), Alain F. Carpentier (2005), Gerald Buckberg (2007), and Andrew S. Wechsler (2008).
[1] AATS Graham Foundation has been fostering Careers and developing Leaders ̶ Since 1973.
It has continually supported cardiothoracic surgeons worldwide in research and education.