Thank You For a Great Year!

I write my final blog post as the President of the AST with mixed emotions. It has been an incredible journey and a personal career highlight for me. Working with my colleagues on the Board and committees and engaging with our membership has been an honor. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served in this capacity.

Reflecting on the past year, I am proud to share some of our key accomplishments, which are aligned with the strategic aims of our strategic plan.

Continuous Innovation

Our commitment to continuous innovation has been evident through several significant initiatives. Since ATC 2023, we have awarded over $1 million in research grants, a substantial portion of which was funded by our Society. These grants are crucial for advancing research and expanding transplantation science. Additionally, our successful ATC, CEoT, Fellows, and Future of Transplantation meetings have provided invaluable educational opportunities for transplant professionals, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and professional development.

Engaging Members

One of the most popular ways that members get involved is through our Communities of Practice (COPs). More than half of our members are involved in one or more COP. These groups act as centers for networking, collaboration, and professional growth. COPs offer numerous opportunities for volunteering, creating educational content, and influencing the future of our field. 

Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome 50 new FAST members this year. These FAST members have shown a sustained commitment to the AST and the field of transplantation.

Serving Our Patients and the Broader Society

At ATC 2023, we launched a patient survey on unmet needs with immunosuppressive therapies. I am happy to report that this survey has received over 10,000 responses. The insights gained from this survey will be presented to the FDA as part of our advocacy for therapies that enhance the quality of life for post-transplant patients. 

Our Living Donor Circle of Excellence has experienced notable growth, with 177 member companies covering 2.7 million employees. 

Additionally, The AST and the Psychosocial and Ethics COP (PSECOP) introduced the Caregiver Toolkit, a comprehensive resource designed to help caregivers navigate the transplant journey.

Developing the Workforce

Developing the workforce is essential for the future of transplantation. Last year, we welcomed 180 Fellows to our Fellows Symposium on Transplantation. This meeting provides a platform for learning, networking, and mentorship. 

Recognizing the declining interest in transplantation specialization, we launched the AST Fellows Task Force in 2023. This task force has identified barriers and developed strategies to reignite enthusiasm and engagement among aspiring transplant professionals. 

Additionally, the AST offered discounted membership fees and travel grants for trainees and medical students, further supporting the next generation of leaders in our field.

Future-Enabled AST

Looking ahead, I am excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new AST website this summer. This redesigned website will be a hub of resources, knowledge, and connectivity, empowering our members and stakeholders to access the information you need. 

As I conclude my presidency, I am proud of what we have accomplished together. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. It has been an honor to serve you all.