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Progress and persistent gaps in organizational climate in SAGES: a 2017-2023 survey comparison
Jennifer Colvin1, Callie Van Winkle2, Yewande R Alimi3
1Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA. colvinjs@ucmail.uc.edu.
Surgical Endoscopy
|August 7, 2026
Summary
The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) survey shows improved member satisfaction and reduced discrimination from 2017 to 2023. However, persistent disparities in experiences based on gender and race/ethnicity highlight the need for continued diversity and inclusion efforts.
Area of Science:
- Organizational psychology
- Surgical professional societies
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) research
Background:
- The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive professional environment.
- An initial 2017 survey identified key areas for improvement regarding member experiences with inclusivity, mentorship, bias, and satisfaction.
- A 2023 follow-up survey was conducted to assess the impact of implemented initiatives and identify ongoing needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in the organizational climate of SAGES between 2017 and 2023.
- To assess the effectiveness of DEI initiatives within SAGES.
- To identify persistent disparities in member experiences related to gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, and practice type.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study using a validated climate survey instrument adapted from the ADVANCE University of Michigan tool.
- Anonymous online survey administered to SAGES committee members, assessing domains of society experience, mentorship, leadership, inclusivity, and bias on a 0-10 scale.
- Data analyzed using descriptive statistics, comparative analysis with 2017 results, subgroup analyses (gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, practice type), and thematic analysis of qualitative responses.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements observed from 2017 to 2023 in overall satisfaction (7.5 to 9.0), leadership transparency (6.6 to 7.8), and reduced discrimination based on gender and race/ethnicity.
- Persistent disparities remain, with females reporting less positive overall perceptions and a greater desire for gender-congruent mentors compared to males.
- Racial and ethnic minorities reported higher levels of scrutiny than non-minorities.
Conclusions:
- The 2023 SAGES Climate Survey indicates progress in member perceptions of inclusion, satisfaction, and equity since 2017.
- Despite overall positive trends, significant differences in perceived culture persist among various demographic groups.
- Ongoing, deliberate strategies and regular climate assessments are crucial for fostering a sustained sense of belonging and ensuring continued progress in DEI.
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