Career highlights
Dr. Ellison is a graduate of the Medical College of Wisconsin (1976) and has spent nearly his entire career at Ohio State, beginning with a general surgery residency, which he completed in 1983. He entered community practice in Columbus between 1987-1993 before returning to Ohio State. He led the division of general surgery and served for six years as director of the general surgery residency program. He was named chair of the department of surgery in 2000. Over 13 years, he led the expansion of the department and the creation of multidisciplinary basic science and clinical research programs.

While serving as program director in general surgery, Dr. Ellison fostered a culture committed to diversity and inclusion in the program, which remains a hallmark of diversity at Ohio State. With the help of key faculty, he co-led the re-establishment of the master of medical science program, which was originally conceived by Robert M. Zollinger, Sr., MD, FACS, in the 1950s. This program has provided a foundation for Ohio State to successfully prepare the next generation of surgeon scientists.
As Practice Plan CEO and interim dean of the College of Medicine at Ohio State, Dr. Ellison worked with the admissions team to help make The Ohio State University College of Medicine a leading institution for opportunities for underrepresented minority students in medical education. He also helped build the research portfolio and provide a sound economic foundation for the College of Medicine.

ACS service
Dr. Ellison became an ACS Fellow in 1986 and his service to the College has been exemplary throughout his multifaceted career. He was a member of the ACS Board of Governors (1997-2003), President of the ACS Ohio Chapter (2003-2004), Chair of the Advisory Council for General Surgery (2013-2015), Chair, Advisory Council Chairs (2013-2015), and most recently, Chair of the ACS Foundation Board of Directors (2019-2021). He has also been a member of many other ACS committees and workgroups. Dr. Ellison is a member of the ACS Academy of Master Surgeon Educators, and his current professional focus is on the education and operative coaching of surgical residents.

While serving as ACS Ohio Chapter President (2003-2004), Dr. Ellison contributed to advocacy efforts in the state to achieve tort reform and, in collaboration with the leadership of Robert E. Falcone, MD, FACS, helped establish a state trauma system. Dr. Ellison has said one of the most rewarding experiences of his career was when he was elected as an ACS representative to the American Board of Surgery (ABS) in 2003.

More People on the Move