The Joseph A. Smith, Jr. Mentorship Award was established in 2020 as an annual keynote address to be delivered at the SUO Winter Meeting as a tribute to Dr. Jay Smith, who embodied the spirit of mentorship in the field of urologic oncology. As a fellow and trainee of the late Willet F. Whitmore, Dr. Smith learned first-hand the importance of strong mentorship in the development of a successful urologic surgeon. His impact on residents, fellows, faculty (many who have themselves become successful chairmen, leaders and mentors) in the field of urologic oncology. Of his numerous contributions that Dr. Smith made to urology, his proudest and most enduring was his role in mentoring careers of those in the field of urologic oncology. Dr. Smith was first the Whitmore Lecturer in 2019, and the Huggins Lecturer in 2015.
Awarded Honorary Members, a $2000 honorarium, and a plaque at the SUO Winter meeting.