South Carolina Orthopaedic Association

Program Overview

Named in honor of Robert and Ann Belding, whose lifelong commitment to orthopaedic education and global service inspires South Carolina’s next generation of leaders.

The Robert and Ann Belding Scholarship Program supports South Carolina orthopaedic residents and fellows in pursuing high-impact global health experiences that prioritize patient safety, longitudinal care, resident education, and mutual learning with partner institutions. Awards are announced at the SCOA Annual Meeting, with recipients required to present outcomes the following year. Off-cycle emergency funding is available for urgent needs.

Application Deadline

Please apply by June 1st (11:59 PM EST). Late submissions will not be considered.

Award Timeline

June 1: Applications due
July SCOA Annual Meeting: Awards announced
Following Year’s SCOA Annual Meeting: Awardee report/presentation required

Funding Structure

Standard Award: Up to **$5,000** per resident (covers travel, lodging, vaccines, and project costs)
Off-Cycle Emergency Funding: Up to **$2,500** (case-by-case, documentation required)

Evaluation Criteria

1. Safe Environment  
Describe the clinical setting, infection control protocols, emergency evacuation plans, and host institution safety certifications. Include crime/violence risk assessment and U.S. State Department travel advisory level.

2. Longitudinal Follow-Up with Patients
Detail how patients will be tracked post-intervention (e.g., clinic returns, telemedicine, local partner follow-up). Include timeline, responsible party, and data collection method.

3. Proximity to SC / Travel Considerations
Justify site selection relative to South Carolina. Address flight duration, layovers, visa requirements, and contingency plans for travel disruptions.

4. Resident Experience Prioritized
Outline specific surgical cases, procedures, or skills the resident will lead/perform. Include case volume estimates and level of autonomy. Attach letter of support from program director confirming educational priority.

5. Bidirectional Education for Partner Program/Institution
Describe teaching activities for local providers (e.g., lectures, workshops, journal clubs). Include topics, audience, and evaluation method (e.g., pre/post-tests).

6. Cultural Exchange
Explain planned community engagement, language training, or cultural immersion activities. How will the resident represent South Carolina values abroad?

Post-Award Requirements

• Present 10-minute summary + Q&A at next SCOA Annual Meeting
• Submit written report (500 words) within 30 days of return
• Provide **photographs** (with patient consent) for SCOA newsletter
• Acknowledge SCOA Foundation in all publications/presentations