The Program In Lasting Leadership and Academic Representation (PILLAR) is established and supported by the Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University and the National Medical Association’s Rabb-Venable Excellence in Ophthalmology Program. This 3-day (2-night) intensive, in-person mentorship program focuses on topics relevant to ophthalmology residents from the lens of those who are, broadly defined, underrepresented in medicine.

The PILLAR program includes talks and mentorship on various career pathways within academic ophthalmology, how to make the most of residency to successfully navigate into fellowship and academic careers, the joys and challenges of these career pathways, and other topics such as negotiating for a job, academic promotion, work-life integration, etc. 

Led by ophthalmology faculty from around the country, we hope to provide a meaningful and informative mentoring experience to help guide ophthalmology residents along their career paths.

All PGY2 ophthalmology residents are welcome to apply. We do not discriminate on the basis of differences in age, ability, gender identity and expression, ethnicity, race, socioeconomic status, religion, immigration status, or sexual orientation.