Dr. J.W. Awori Hayanga Named President of National Cardiothoracic Surgery Organization
WVU Heart and Vascular Institute clinical and research leader J.W. Awori Hayanga, MD, MPH, MHL, has been appointed president of the Association of Black Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons (ABCTS), advancing the organization’s mission to promote diversity, mentorship, and excellence in cardiothoracic surgery while improving care for underserved communities.
Founded in 1997, ABCTS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with more than 200 members, including practicing surgeons, trainees, and medical students. The organization is committed to promoting academic and clinical excellence, mentoring the next generation of surgeons, and advocating equitable, culturally competent care for patients across the country.
Dr. Hayanga, who serves as vice chair of Faculty and Clinical Affairs and as a professor in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, is a nationally recognized leader in cardiothoracic surgery, with expertise in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), lung transplantation, and critical care.
At WVU Medicine, he also serves as medical director of the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute Innovation, Research, Education, and Prevention Program. His work spans clinical care, research, and policy, with active involvement in national organizations, such as the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery.
“As I step into this role, I am deeply mindful of the legacy of those who came before us and the responsibility to continue building a more inclusive and excellent future for our field,” Dr. Hayanga said. “The mission of ABCTS – to elevate underrepresented voices while advancing the highest standards of patient care – aligns closely with the work we are doing at the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute. It is an honor to help lead efforts that support our colleagues and ultimately improve outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Under Dr. Hayanga’s leadership, ABCTS will continue its focus on mentorship, professional development, and advocacy, while strengthening pathways for trainees and fostering innovation in cardiothoracic care.
“Dr. Hayanga’s appointment reflects both his extraordinary leadership and his commitment to advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery,” Vinay Badhwar, MD, executive chair of the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute and president of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, said. “His dedication to excellence, education, and health equity has made a lasting impact on WVU Medicine and beyond. We are proud to see him take on this important national role.”