This year, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy celebrates 80 years as a professional membership organization!
(Image of Dr. Rudolf V. Shindler)
Initially known as the American Gastroscopic Club, our society was founded in 1941 by 17 colleagues assembled at the residence of our first president Dr. Rudolf V. Schindler, who a few years earlier had immigrated to the United States from Germany to escape Nazi persecution. In 1947, the organization’s name was changed to the American Gastroscopic Society before changing again in 1957 to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, reflecting its broader mission as a national and soon to be international membership organization promoting the rapidly expanding field of gastrointestinal endoscopy.
We have come a long way since 1941. Today, almost 15,000 gastroenterologists and colleagues from related specialties are a part of our membership family. ASGE has scored many significant achievements in promoting excellence and innovation in GI endoscopy and we have made great strides in supporting high quality care and patient safety. We are proud of the longevity and worldwide impact of ASGE as we celebrate this 80th anniversary landmark. This milestone deserves significant recognition and we invite you to celebrate with us all year long! Stay tuned to the anniversary activities you will be hearing about throughout 2021.