Today's Convocation ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. ET will close out ACC.24 by celebrating the College's 75-year history, applauding the many accomplishments of ACC members around the world, welcoming new Fellows and Associates to the ACC family, and recognizing Cathleen Biga, MSN, FACC, as the College's next president.

Presided over by outgoing ACC President B. Hadley Wilson, MD, FACC, the time-honored tradition will usher hundreds of new Fellows and Associates into the College and honor the mentors, educators, scientists and difference-makers who make up this year's Distinguished Award winners, while also recognizing the recipients of the Young Investigator Awards, Hani Najm Global Scholar Awards, ACC/ABC/Merck Research Fellowship Awardees, William A. Zoghbi International Research Award and JACC Young Author and Simon Dack Awards. Both the Hani Najm and William A. Zoghbi awards have been made possible through philanthropic gifts to the College over the last few years.

Additionally, Convocation will pay tribute to ACC Past President Adolf Hutter, MD, MACC, (1992-1993) a master clinician and pioneering sports cardiologist who believed in the power of member volunteers to push the ACC forward.

It is also an important time for recognizing the critical work being done by cardiovascular societies around the world to reduce the global burden of heart disease.

"Over the last 75 years, the ACC has been instrumental in driving global change. But we haven't done it alone. We are forever grateful to our global network of dedicated society partners and Chapters for their collaboration, leadership and shared commitment to improving the lives of cardiovascular patients around the world," says outgoing Board of Governors Chair and ACC Secretary Nicole L. Lohr, MD, PhD, FACC.

Per tradition, Lohr will carry the Mace and lead the new Fellows and Associates through their respective pledges, formally welcoming them to the ACC. Also, per tradition, Biga will be passed the president chain, formally kicking off her presidential year.

"As we embark on our next strategic plan, Cathie is the right ACC leader at the right time to elevate and support our work to deliver on our Mission to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health for all," says Wilson. In looking back on his past year, he adds: "I am forever humbled and deeply grateful to each and every ACC member who has welcomed me – and the ACC – into their homes, communities, cities, states, and countries over this past year. A special note of thanks to our State and International Chapters, Member Sections and our incredible network of partner societies from around the world for their support, leadership and shared commitment to creating a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize cardiovascular care and outcomes."

Keywords: ACC Publications, ACC Scientific Session Newspaper

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