The Blade and Light International Symposium brings together thought leaders from the intersection of dermatologic surgery and other medical specialties, the arts, the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences and technology. The goal is to create thought provoking discussions, synergy and action plans in order to improve health care and global well being. The first annual Blade and Light International Symposium will take place on the Monterey Peninsula in late spring/summer 2015.