Recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to adult and congenital cardiac surgery, revolutionizing surgical techniques and improved patient care worldwide

Houston, Texas (February 5, 2025) The Texas Heart Institute (THI) is honored to announce Dr. Hartzell Vernon Schaff, the Stuart W. Harrington Professor of Surgery at Mayo Clinic, as the recipient of the 2025 Ray C. Fish Award for Scientific Achievement. This prestigious award celebrates individuals whose groundbreaking innovations have significantly advanced the fields of cardiovascular medicine and surgery.

Dr. Schaff’s distinguished career spans more than four decades, marked by transformative contributions to adult and congenital cardiac surgery. He has authored or co-authored over 1,200 peer-reviewed papers, 110 book chapters, and nine textbooks, influencing surgical practices and improving patient outcomes worldwide. Colleagues describe him as a “pure genius intuitive surgeon,” whose precision and dedication have guided some of the most complex surgical cases.

Presented during a special ceremony at The Texas Heart Institute, the award celebrates not only Dr. Schaff’s achievements but also the enduring legacy of Ray C. Fish, a philanthropist and visionary who played a pivotal role in founding THI. “Mr. Fish believed in the American dream of providing opportunities for success,” said Joseph G. Rogers, MD, President and CEO of The Texas Heart Institute. “His transformative gift in 1962 made the Institute a reality, and the Ray C. Fish Award honors his vision by recognizing those who have made significant contributions to cardiovascular medicine.”

At the ceremony, Dr. Joseph Rogers and Dr. Jim Livesay reflected on Dr. Schaff’s unparalleled impact on cardiovascular surgery and his dedication to mentorship and innovation. Dr. Schaff’s impact has extended beyond his prolific research and surgical achievements to include his leadership in Mayo Clinic’s Department of Cardiovascular Surgery.

“Dr. Schaff’s contributions to cardiothoracic surgery and his unwavering commitment to patient care are immeasurable,” said Rogers. “His work has saved countless lives and continues to inspire the next generation of cardiovascular innovators.”

The event concluded with the unveiling of Dr. Schaff’s portrait, which will join the gallery of past Ray C. Fish Award recipients displayed on the 5th Floor of The Texas Heart Institute, a tribute to his enduring legacy.

Since its inception in 1972, the Ray C. Fish Award has recognized more than 40 trailblazing clinicians and scientists. Past recipients include esteemed figures such as Dr. Bud Frazier (2008), Dr. David Ott (2016), Dr. Joseph Coselli (2017), and Dr. Emerson Perin (2019). The award alternates biennially between cardiovascular surgeons and cardiologists, underscoring its broad recognition of excellence across disciplines.

For more information about the Ray C. Fish Award visit texasheart.org/ray-fish-award.