Inter-institutional collaboration provides a unique platform for students to share insights and enhance their learning experience. Such was the case at the SIGN Forum held at the New York State Neurological Society’s (NYSNS) Annual Meeting. Thus, utilization of the NYSNS SIGN forum’s structure in a virtual format can allow for similar or greater impact in regions where (A) institutions are geographically further away and (B) there is no local State Neurological Society to host a SIGN forum.

To assess the feasibility and impact of a virtual student-led forum on fostering inter-institutional collaboration for mentorship and educational activities among SIGN chapters in the Mid-Atlantic Area. 

To gauge interest in a virtual SIGN forum among chapters in the Mid-Atlantic region, a survey was emailed to student and faculty SIGN leadership at the 13 active chapters listed in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Similar to the NYSNS SIGN forum, there was dedicated time for SIGN chapters to present their recent initiatives and plans for future events.  

Nine institutions in total completed the pre-forum survey. All 4 states/districts were represented among the 9 institutions. One hundred percent of the institutions noted they would be interested in an online SIGN forum, a shared contact sheet for SIGN chapter collaborations and a shared resource sheet for various opportunities. Eight institutions presented at the inaugural student-organized Mid-Atlantic Virtual SIGN forum in April 2024. As a result of the SIGN forum, 2 collaborative virtual events have been organized in 2024: an inter-institutional Match Panel and Journal Club.