Dr. Mario Leitao is recognized with the 2025 IGCS Excellence in Teaching Award for his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to surgical education in gynecologic oncology.

A U.S. board-certified gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Leitao serves as a Member and Attending Surgeon in the Division of Gynecology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medical College. He is also the Director of the Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship Program at MSKCC—one of the largest and most comprehensive fellowships in the world, training 14 clinical fellows and 3 research fellows annually, including a longstanding and continuously active International Training Program, the only one in the U.S. with ESGO accreditation.

In addition, Dr. Leitao leads the Minimal Access and Robotic Surgery (MARS) Program at MSKCC, overseeing minimally invasive surgical training across multiple disciplines. He is globally respected for pioneering surgical techniques, having authored over 270 peer-reviewed publications, more than 80 reviews and textbook chapters, and co-editing a leading surgical textbook.

Throughout his career, Dr. Leitao has shared his expertise around the world—delivering lectures, performing live surgeries, and supporting the development of robotic and minimally invasive programs across continents. His deep commitment to global education is reflected in his service to IGCS, including roles as North America Representative on the Board of Directors and current Chair of the IGCS Minimal Access Surgery Training Program.

Dr. Leitao’s tireless mentorship, global impact, and scholarly contributions have shaped generations of gynecologic oncologists. His approach to teaching—rooted in generosity, precision, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—is what defines a truly great educator. Please join us in celebrating his remarkable achievements and well-deserved recognition.