President's Update, September 2014

Hossein Gharib, M.D. ATA President

Dear ATA friends,

This is my last official message to you as president since my term wraps up next month during the 84th Annual Meeting of the ATA. As years often do, this one went by faster than expected and as we near its closing, I want to express how honored I have been for having served as your president.

In July, Dr. E. Chester (Chip) Ridgway passed away. His death was saddening and his departure premature. Chip was a Professor in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Diabetes, the Executive Vice Chair in the Department of Medicine, the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the University of Colorado School of Medicine, and the recent recipient of the Distinguished Professor Award. Chip was the past President of the ATA (1997), the past President of the Endocrine Society (2004), and an international authority on thyroid disorders. He was a gifted teacher, an innovative researcher, a good friend, and a distinguished colleague. He will be missed and should be remembered for his significant accomplishments and major contributions to medicine.

I am extremely proud of Mike Tuttle and Fred Wondisford who, as co-chairs, worked tirelessly with the 2014 Program Committee to develop an outstanding, high-quality scientific program. The program includes many plenary lectures, symposia, basic and clinical sessions, MTP, and more. The abstract deadline has passed; 329 regular call and 28 short call abstracts were accepted.

I'd like also to extend my deep gratitude to my Mayo colleague, close friend and ATA Chief Operating Officer/Secretary, John Morris. I also want to be sure to recognize and thank the ATA Executive Committee, the Board of Directors and all committee chairs — and, especially, our Executive Director, Bobbi Smith and her wonderful ATA Staff.

It bears repeating that I very much enjoyed my tenure as president. I remain optimistic about our future and have no doubt that- collectively- we can overcome any obstacles and challenges.

I look forward to seeing and welcoming all of you at our 84th Annual Meeting next month at Hotel del Coronado!

Sincerely,

Hossein Gharib, MD, MACP
ATA President