Strategic Engagement and Professional Development

The Department of Surgery at Indiana University School of Medicine is committed to fostering a supportive and dynamic environment that values all experiences, perspectives and talents. We focus on cultivating an environment focused on attracting exceptional individuals, maintaining a collaborative working and learning environment and enhancing interpersonal and professional skills.

The mission of Strategic Engagement and Professional Development is to establish and sustain a culture that supports the growth and success of all with the goal of promoting effective recruitment, development, retention and advancement of surgical faculty at Indiana University School of Medicine.

Our Team

C Max Schmidt, MD, PhD

Professor of Surgery

Vice Chair of Academic Affairs

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Laura Torbeck, PhD, MS

Professor of Surgery

Vice Chair of Professional Development and Wellness

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Academic Affairs

The Department of Surgery Promotion and Tenure Committee evaluates the clinical, scholarly and citizenship activity of the surgical faculty. All faculty are assessed in their service, teaching and research pursuits in a holistic manner with the goal of facilitating advancement in the academic timeline.

Contact C. Max Schmidt for more information or to get involved.

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Strategic Engagement

The Department of Surgery is committed to systems and structures that support a positive and collaborative departmental culture for all. This culture values all perspectives, experiences and professional backgrounds to inform thoughtful decision-making and drive innovation. We welcome input from all members of our community to ensure our actions reflect the goals of a forward-thinking department.

Diverse group of residents with visiting professor

Picture of Dept of Surgery Residents in their softball uniforms huddled together smiling

Professional Development

The Department of Surgery has a robust professional development program for residents, fellows, faculty, APPs and staff that focuses on teaching, leadership and career navigation. Faculty can also take advantage of the many professional development opportunities through FAPD.

The Department of Surgery established the Wellness Program to support the well-being of faculty, staff, advanced practice providers, residents and fellows. The program aims to foster an environment where individuals can pursue personal and professional goals while maintaining their overall wellness. We prioritize supportive, meaningful interactions that promote strong team collaboration and emphasize wellness-centered leadership, particularly in efforts to improve practice efficiency.

Contact Laura Torbeck for more information or to get involved.

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Mistreatment Reporting

IU School of Medicine is committed to fostering a supportive and respectful environment that promotes teaching, learning and collaboration. The school upholds core values of excellence, respect, integrity and cooperation. Learners, faculty and staff who believe they have experienced or witnessed mistreatment are strongly encouraged to report concerns using the Mistreatment Incident Report form.

Report Mistreatment

Get Involved

Considering becoming a part of a committee but have some questions?

Feel free to connect with our vice chairs, who are here to help you find the right committee and answer your questions. Discover how you can get involved and gain a deeper understanding of what we're all about!