Gold Humanism Honor Society

Start a New Chapter

We are delighted that you are interested in establishing an undergraduate medical education GHHS chapter at your institution. To be considered for a GHHS chapter, we require a detailed written application with the following:

  • A completed New Chapter Application Cover Sheet
  • A description of the role your GHHS chapter will serve within the structure and culture of your institution
  • The name and position of proposed Chapter Advisor(s)
  • A description of the peer nomination and selection process that will be implemented by your chapter
  • Plans for formally inducting selected members into GHHS
  • Ideas for mentoring and service programs
  • A vision for branding and sustaining the chapter at your institution
  • Full LCME or COCA accreditation verification
  • A letter of support from the dean acknowledging the annual GHHS dues that are required to maintain your chapter’s active status. A GHHS Chapter is responsible for their annual dues beginning in the third induction year.

The value of starting a new GHHS chapter

With the support of the Gold Foundation and GHHS Supporters, GHHS funds educational events, supports research, promotes professional growth and creates opportunities for GHHS members to network with others who share their values and beliefs. Benefits include:

  • International recognition of humanistic achievement
  • Special recognition on the ERAS residency application form 
  • Leadership development opportunities
  • Grant opportunities
  • Networking and mentoring connections
  • Professional development and convenings
  • Resources to promote humanistic care in their community

Resources for chapter application

Selecting Chapter Advisors

  • The Chapter Advisor (CA) should have a strong commitment to the humanistic development of trainees at your institution and the delivery of compassionate patient care.
  • Responsibilities include overseeing nomination & selection procedures, updating member information with the GHHS national office, planning the Induction Ceremony, and working with chapter members on activities aligned with the mission of GHHS.
  • CAs must be a member of the faculty.
  • Once selected, CAs become a member of GHHS and are inducted at the inaugural Induction Ceremony.

Selecting GHHS members

  • Medical student chapters may select no greater than 15% of a medical school class, four faculty members, and up to six residents each year.
  • Medical students must be selected via a peer nomination process for GHHS membership utilizing the McCormack Survey as soon as peers and clerkship directors had sufficient time to observe them in clinical settings.
  • A secondary review process is recommended including confirmation of academic eligibility, program director evaluations, and an additional essay, interview or other indication of the nominee’s willingness and qualifications to serve.

Inducting GHHS members

  • After the selection of new GHHS members, Chapter Advisors must complete the Induction Procedure Form 21 days prior to the Induction Ceremony to receive pins and certificates in a timely fashion.
  • New GHHS members should be recognized in a formal Induction Ceremony held at any point between the completion of the selection process and graduation.
  • Formal recognition should also take place when other student honors and awards are bestowed. In addition, schools are expected to acknowledge student membership in GHHS at graduation ceremonies.

Building and sustaining a GHHS chapter

  • New GHHS members should meet soon after selection to collaborate and determine the activities the group will pursue in the year ahead.
  • Grant opportunities ranging from $1000 – $7500 are available for such activities through the GHHS Grant Opportunities Application process. GHHS Grants are currently under review and will not be taking applications during the interim.