This year’s Opening Showcase provides an opportunity to recognize two individuals who are leaving their marks on the field of cardiology. Both Jeffrey A. Towbin, MD, FACC, the College’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement awardee, and Ginger K. Biesbrock, PA-C, DSc, FACC, ACC’s Presidential Citation recipient, will take the stage this morning to receive their awards.

Towbin, one of the most distinguished leaders in pediatric cardiology, has earned global recognition for his pioneering work in cardiac genetics, pediatric heart failure (HF) and transplantation. With a career spanning over four decades, he has fundamentally transformed the understanding and management of cardiomyopathies, myocarditis and arrhythmic disorders through groundbreaking research and clinical innovation.

“A tireless mentor and educator, Dr. Towbin has shaped the careers of over two dozen division chiefs and department chairs, ensuring a legacy of excellence in pediatric cardiology,” says Joseph William Rossano, MD, FACC, who nominated Towbin for the award. “His ability to integrate molecular science with clinical practice has inspired a new generation of physician-scientists and clinicians, cementing his role as a leader and advocate for patient care and education.”

Towbin has led major cardiology programs at Texas Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, establishing world-class infrastructures for research, mentorship and clinical care. In addition, his translational investigations into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying HF have led to novel diagnostic tools, targeted therapies and advancements in heart transplantation.

Biesbrock, Executive Vice President of Care Transformation for MedAxiom, has spent her career championing team-based care as a critical means of optimizing patient care and outcomes

“With a focus on integrating advanced practice providers into multidisciplinary teams, Ginger’s work has significantly enhanced patient outcomes and set a benchmark for institutions nationwide,” says ACC President Cathleen Biga, MSN, FACC. “Her contributions span care team optimization, value-based care and the development of clinical best practices.”

Prior to joining MedAxiom, Biesbrock served as chief operating officer of The Cardiovascular Group at Centra Health in Lynchburg, VA, followed by directing operations at West Michigan Heart in Grand Rapids, MI. She holds a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Public Health degree from Michigan State University. She completed her doctorate in health care leadership at the University of Alabama – Birmingham in 2022.

“In addition to her professional achievements, Ginger’s ability to foster collaboration within the field of cardiology has profoundly influenced those around her – transforming the lives of countless patients and inspiring a new generation to strive for excellence in team-based care,” says Biga. “It is a privilege to recognize her outstanding contributions to the field, and we are fortunate to benefit from her expertise, passion and steadfast commitment to transforming cardiovascular care for all.”

Keywords: Cardiology Magazine, ACC Publications, ACC25, ACC Annual Scientific Session