As many international radiologists prepare to travel to Chicago for RSNA 2009, I reflect on how, as chair of RSNA's Committee on International Relations & Education (CIRE) since 2006, I've had the privilege of welcoming talented young radiologists from all over the world who come to the U.S. to participate in RSNA's various educational programs. Most notable among these programs are the Introduction to Research for International Young Academics and the Derek Harwood-Nash International Fellowship. Over and over again, the committee receives reports from our graduates recounting how RSNA programs have been instrumental in launching their academic careers.

George A. Taylor, M.D.

One particularly heartwarming story involves a Derek Harwood-Nash fellow from Nigeria who came here in fall 2007. Early on, committee members discovered that her hospital needed an ultrasound unit dedicated to pediatric imaging. We helped her prepare an application to the Global Ultrasound Equipment Donation Foundation and in spring 2009, the ultrasound was awarded and sited.

In addition to opportunities for advanced training and education at various North American medical centers, radiologists from emerging nations also benefit from the CIRE-sponsored International Visiting Professor (IVP) program. Since 1986, radiology educators from the U.S. and other developed nations have lectured at national and regional meetings in countries where there is a great demand for current information on imaging technologies and best practice. It is difficult to tell who derives more from the experience—the visitors or the hosts.

CIRE-supported initiatives have made a difference in the lives of many international radiologists by providing access to resources not readily available in their home countries. I have been especially privileged to play a role in developing these opportunities for international exchange. RSNA members are fortunate to practice an exciting and rewarding specialty and to be able to make such a positive difference to the international community.

George A. Taylor, M.D., is radiologist-in-chief at Children's Hospital Boston and the John A. Kirkpatrick Professor of Radiology at Harvard Medical School. In addition to chairing the RSNA Committee on International Relations & Education, Dr. Taylor is a manuscript reviewer for Radiology.