UAB General Surgery Resident Connie Shao, M.D., is responsible for creating the graphic design for the new Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT) logo. 

The SSAT’s primary focus is to enhance the practice, care, and science of gastrointestinal (GI) surgery. Inspiration for the new logo was drawn from the SSAT’s traditional logo in order to illustrate the members’ pride in SSAT’s history and deep appreciation for its legacy. The new logo introduces a contemporary aesthetic that will be utilized across all social media platforms, websites, and official communications. 

“I am honored that my design has been selected as the new official SSAT logo,” said Dr. Shao. “It is a privilege to contribute to a society that fosters innovation and excellence in GI surgery."

Shao has been a dedicated member of the SSAT since 2021. Shao earned her Biomedical Engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis then attended medical school at the University of Chicago. Since starting at UAB, Shao has earned her MSPH in Health Outcomes, completed the American College of Surgeons MacLean Ethics Fellowship, and was awarded grant funding from the American College of Surgeons Resident Research Award, National Institute of Health T32 Health Services Research Training Program, and the School of Public Health to study the significance of telemedicine on decreasing healthcare disparities.