The continued strength and stability of TAGME (Training Administrators of Graduate Medical Education) can be directly attributed to the exceptional leadership of individuals like Linda Shaffer. As TAGME’s current Executive Director, Linda brings decades of unparalleled experience and dedication to the organization, ensuring its mission remains vibrant and forward-focused. Her position serves as a cornerstone of continuity, stability, and vision as TAGME continues to grow and evolve in support of GME professionals.
For 40 years, Linda dedicated her career to general surgery at West Virginia University (WVU), where she became a respected leader in residency program administration. Spending her entire tenure within one department and its residency program, she played a vital role in shaping graduate medical education. In 2024, she retired from WVU, but her passion for the field continues to drive her work.
One of the founding members of the Association of Residency Administrators in Surgery (ARAS), Linda has been an influential force in the profession, serving as ARAS, (ARCS) President in 2013. She also lent her skills as a Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) proctor/trainer while at WVU. Today, she lends her expertise to residency programs across the U.S. as a consultant.
However, her greatest passion lies with TAGME (Training Administrators in Graduate Medical Education), an organization she has been devoted to for the past 24 years. As one of TAGME’s original certified members, Linda has been instrumental in its growth, serving as Chair and Co-Chair for multiple specialty boards and committees, including Surgery, Assessments, Finance, and Marketing. Her leadership extended to the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, where she served as President from 2022-2024. Now, as Past President (2025-2026), she continues to champion TAGME’s mission.
Reflecting on her journey, Linda shares, “Years ago, there wasn’t a dedicated degree for this profession, but thanks to the hard work and dedication of past TAGME Presidents, the vision for certification has been realized and recognized. This organization has grown tremendously and remains committed to helping program coordinators advance in their careers.”
With a lifelong commitment to medical education administration, Linda’s leadership and dedication continue to shape the profession’s future.
