The Garnes Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization fostering mentorship, collaboration, and fellowship among those underrepresented in plastic and reconstructive surgery, shaping a diverse and inclusive future in medicine and healthcare.

The goal of the Arthur L. Garnes Society is to increase the representation of under-represented minorities in the field of plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery and to reduce health disparities related to plastic surgery in the general public. Named after the first Black Chairman of plastic surgery in the United States, The Garnes Society is devoted to building a strong network of black and underrepresented minority plastic surgeons through mentorship, collaboration, and fellowship in order to address the lack of diversity within the field. Expanding the number of minority academic plastic surgeons may establish a health care environment more accommodating to minority patients, increase studies highlighting minority health needs, and provide additional role models and mentors.