The Board of Regents helps guide the governance, policies and strategic direction of the ACS, which represents approximately 95,000 members in 144 countries.
"Being elected to the Board of Regents is deeply meaningful," Cooke said. "This opportunity represents a chance to help shape the future of our profession, develop the next generation of surgical leaders and strengthen the institutions and systems that support excellent surgical care. I am especially proud to represent UC Davis Health on this national stage."
Cooke's involvement with ACS spans more than two decades. He has served in numerous leadership roles. His contributions have included service with the Resident and Associate Society, Young Fellows Association, Program Committee, Patient Education Committee, Board of Governors, Commission on Cancer and the Northern California Chapter of the ACS.
As a regent, Cooke will help oversee the direction of the college and contribute to national discussions on surgical practice, patient care, education, research and emerging innovations such as artificial intelligence and robotics.
"Dr. Cooke's election to the Board of Regents is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his national leadership and longstanding commitment to surgical excellence and service," said UC Davis School of Medicine Dean Susan Murin. "He has dedicated his career to improving care for patients and is an inspiration for the next generation of surgeons."
The American College of Surgeons has served the surgical profession for more than 100 years. Its mission is to improve the care of surgical patients and safeguard standards of care in an optimal and ethical practice environment.
