Jonathan van Heerden, M.D.

Jonathan van Heerden, M.D. (S ’70), has been named an Icon of Surgery by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) — one of the most prestigious honors bestowed by the ACS in recognition of extraordinary contributions to surgical education, practice and mentorship. Dr. van Heerden was selected due to his significant contributions to the field of endocrine surgery, including playing an essential role in the establishment of endocrine surgery as a recognized specialty, the education and training of countless trainees, his commitment to mentorship and advancing the collective understanding of endocrine surgery disorders. Dr. van Heerden’s career in academic surgery has spanned decades and continents, beginning with his nearly 40-year tenure at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, where he trained hundreds of residents in both general and endocrine surgery.