President's Update, November 2014
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| Robert C. Smallridge, M.D. ATA President |
Dear ATA Colleagues,
What an exciting annual meeting, with gorgeous Southern California weather, a spectacular venue at the historic Hotel del Coronado, and a strong educational program. Many thanks to our Program Committee, chaired by Mike Tuttle and Fredric Wondisford, for creating a broad based agenda that addressed the interests of our expanding and diverse membership (now more than 1700 members!). We are also grateful to Bobbi Smith and her dedicated staff for the outstanding planning leading up to the meeting, as well as their on-site diligence and commitment to assuring a seamless experience for all.
With the change in seasons comes change in leadership in the ATA. I would like to thank Past President Bryan Haugen, Vic Bernet, Gerard Doherty, and Sissy Jhiang, who are retiring from their terms on the Board of Directors, and welcome our new Board members Regina Castro, Julie Ann Sosa, and Christine Spitzweg. And of course, we owe our heartfelt thanks to Hossein Gharib, who led the organization so ably as President this past year and to my friend, John Morris, our Secretary/COO, whose calm demeanor and wisdom have guided the affairs of the ATA the past 4 years. Welcome also to our new officers, President-Elect Tony Bianco and Secretary-Elect Vic Bernet.
This year promises to be filled with exciting and important activities for the ATA. First, quite a few management guidelines should be published soon—Medullary Thyroid Cancer; Pediatric Thyroid Cancer; Nodules and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer; Treatment of Hypothyroidism. Second, in late January we are having a Retreat to refresh our 5-year Strategic Plan. Third, the 15th International Thyroid Congress will be held in Lake Buena Vista (Orlando), FL. The ATA will host the meeting, which welcomes attendees from our sister organizations, the ETA, AOTA, and LATS. The International Program Committee, chaired by Rebecca Bahn, has organized a wonderful educational program. The ITC should be a special event that you won't want to miss; and bring your family to enjoy the beautiful October weather at a world renowned family destination.
I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as your President this coming year, and look forward to working with the Board and the many committees which so smoothly keep the ATA moving forward. If you wish to become involved with the ATA or if you have any questions or concerns about the ATA please call me.
Best wishes,
Bob Smallridge, M.D.
ATA President