About the Gallagher Scholarship

In 2007, the AUA Board of Directors approved the launch of this annual scholar program in honor of former executive director, G. James Gallagher. The Gallagher Health Policy Scholar Program hopes to attract those urologists who have demonstrated a commitment to or have a keen interest in the field of health policy and who are dedicated to advancing urology's health policy agenda.

Application Criteria

To apply you must:

• Be an AUA member urologist
• Demonstrate a commitment to or have deep interest in the field of health policy
• Be dedicated to advancing urology's health policy agenda

As a scholar, you will spend up to 30 days away from your practice for intensive training on a wide range of health policy issues.

Your training includes:

• Mentoring from seasoned physician volunteers
• Participation in key meetings and conferences
• Participation in public policy activities as outlined by the Public Policy Council

Stipend and reimbursement for scholars

A stipend of $15,000 and reimbursement for travel and other expenses will be provided over the course of the year-long program.

The application period for the 2026 Gallagher Scholar has closed. If you have questions or want more information, email Joshua Webster at Jwebster@auanet.org.

Current Gallagher Scholar

Sarah E. McAchran, MD, FACS

Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. McAchran is an accomplished academic urologist with subspecialty certification in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. She has held multiple leadership roles, including Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs and Faculty Development and Wellness, and currently serves as Section Head of Urogynecology and Co-Medical Director of the Women’s Pelvic Wellness Clinic at UW Health. A dedicated educator and mentor, she has guided residents, fellows, and junior faculty while chairing numerous search and promotions committees. Dr. McAchran is deeply engaged in health policy and advocacy, serving as the North Central Section Representative to the AUA Public Policy Committee and participating in the AUA State Advocacy Committee. Her contributions to organized urology include leadership positions within the Wisconsin Urologic Society and the AUA Women in Urology Committee, a committee of the North Central Section of the AUA.

“I am honored to be considered for the Gallagher Health Policy Scholarship,” said Dr. McAchran. “This opportunity will deepen my understanding of health policy and strengthen my ability to advocate for patients and advance urology as a specialty.”

Immediate Past Gallagher Scholar

Michael Davis, MD, MBA, MHA, FACS

Division Chief

Dr. Davis holds advanced business and health care administration degrees and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is deeply committed to education, serving as a mentor to students, residents and colleagues and has contributed extensively to professional organizations, including the AUA, where he has been a member since 2003. In the last 20+ years, he has been a state representative for the South Central Section, an AUAPAC champion for the South Central Section and has presented posters and abstracts at numerous annual meetings.

“I am incredibly excited and deeply honored to be nominated as the next Gallagher Health Policy Scholar,” said Dr. Davis. “I look forward to this prestigious opportunity, which will give me a broader understanding of the health care policy that affects our ability to care for patients and the skills to advocate for urology as a specialty.”

Past Gallagher Scholars