Dr. Kramer, Board of Trustees members, distinguished award winners, new Fellows and Associates, global partners, past presidents, colleagues, family, and friends, as I stand here today, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey we've had together this year, including the last three days.

I think back to a conversation I had early on with a young cardiologist just beginning her career, who told me she joined the ACC because she wanted to be part of something bigger than herself – a community that truly makes a difference.

And that's exactly what we are.

Each of you, whether you're on the front lines of patient care, driving groundbreaking research, mentoring the next generation, shaping policies that will impact millions, or a critical member of the CV team, each of you has played a vital role in making this an extraordinary year for the ACC.

So today, I simply want to say: thank you. Thank you for your dedication, your passion and your unwavering commitment to our shared Mission.

You, who have worked tirelessly to advance cardiovascular care, and, most importantly, improve the lives of patients, your passion, expertise and unwavering commitment are what make this organization so extraordinary. Because of you, we are not just shaping the future of cardiology – we are transforming lives.

As I reflect on this extraordinary year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride and a profound sense of accomplishment. This past year has been one of remarkable growth, innovation, celebration and collaboration – one that has reaffirmed my belief in the power of this community.

Stepping into the role of ACC President, I carried the aspirations of so many who came before me and the responsibility of paving the way for those who will lead after me. This year has been exhilarating, unique and undeniably one of the most momentous of my career.

Tonight, as we close this chapter and look to the future, I want to take a moment to reflect on the milestones we've reached, the lessons we've learned and the unforgettable moments that have defined this journey together.

One year ago, I stood on this stage, outlining our new Strategic Plan and kicking off what was a landmark milestone for the College – our 75th anniversary.

We entered this year with both a bold vision for the future – one that focused on embracing our CV Team – and ensuring quality was at the center of everything we do. It was also an opportunity to reflect upon and reinforce the College's legacy of innovation, education and leadership.

Over the past year, we have worked to not only listen but to take action – finding meaningful ways to address the evolving needs of our members. You asked for more bidirectional communication with leadership, greater opportunities for engagement, more frequent clinical guidance, and new ways to demonstrate professional excellence and continuous learning. And we delivered.

This year, we also strengthened our advocacy efforts, ensuring that we continue to champion policies that protect patient access to high-quality cardiovascular care. Whether in the U.S. or on a global stage, we fought for the needs of our profession and, most importantly, our patients.

A central theme of this year has been the elevation of team-based care and dyad leadership not just as a concept but as a driving force in health care transformation. Together with our Chapters, Member Sections, global CV societies, industry partners and others, we have worked to develop critical programs and guidance aimed at empowering physician-led teams in their day-to-day efforts to improve patient care and outcomes worldwide.

What has been truly rewarding is seeing this vision embraced globally – from the U.S. to Europe, from Africa to South America, and beyond. I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how our global colleagues are incorporating dyad leadership and team-based care into their health care models. Seeing this movement gain momentum worldwide has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my presidency.

And beyond just clinical care, our shared challenges in cardiovascular health unite us. Whether it was the technological advancements in Asia, the strong emphasis on quality improvement in Saudi Arabia or the drive for increased patient access in Africa, one thing was clear – our work is deeply interconnected. This year has reinforced for me that we are stronger together, and the solutions we develop must be global in scale.

People have asked me what my biggest lesson learned has been as ACC president. I can tell you there have been many. But if I had to distill it down to one, I would say this: leadership is not just about overcoming challenges; it is about alignment and inclusion.

Thank you for getting to know me, for allowing me this groundbreaking opportunity that shows the College's commitment, your commitment, to diverse leadership. I acknowledge the controversy, accepted the challenges and proved as a dyad team nothing is impossible.

When we align around a shared purpose, when we commit ourselves to meaningful change, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. We've seen this in our efforts to advocate for patient access, to support a more diverse and inclusive pipeline of cardiovascular leaders and to integrate emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, responsibly into clinical practice.

For those looking to take on leadership roles, especially women and underrepresented groups, my advice is simple: there is no limit to what you can achieve. If the glass ceiling won't break, find a way around it.

Seek mentors, develop emotional intelligence, surround yourself with people who will challenge you to grow and never be afraid to embrace your own leadership journey. The future of cardiovascular medicine belongs to those willing to lead.

The future is bright!

As we conclude our 75th anniversary year, I hope my tenure will be remembered for our collective efforts to transform cardiovascular care delivery, champion dyad leadership and elevate quality in everything we do. But more than that, I hope it will be remembered for inspiring others to believe in themselves, to step into leadership and to push the boundaries of what is possible – to dream the impossible.

So what's next? We must continue to educate, advocate for system change, and champion quality and care transformation. As I pass this chain – this meaningful chain – I do so with confidence. I know Dr. Chris Kramer will be an amazing leader, as evidenced this past year as my dyad, my sounding board, and he will be an amazing president. With his leadership, alongside our CEO, Cathleen C. Gates, and the Board of Trustees, I am confident that the ACC will continue to deliver immense value for years to come.

As we move forward, let's keep member engagement, responsible artificial intelligence implementation, scientific integrity, team-based care and global collaboration at the forefront. The future of cardiovascular care is bright, and I am deeply honored to have played a role in shaping it alongside all of you.

Before I close, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the ACC team, in addition to those mentioned, those individuals who made my life easier as long as I trusted the process: James, Alyssa, Taylor, Leigh, Jacob, Nick and so many more; Jack, Greg, Laurie, Nancy, Amy, my CMI family, thank you for all you did to keep the home fires burning.

I am so glad many of you have met my family, my true North: our four adult kids and their spouses, and of course the 13 grandkids who now think ACC is their personal meeting.

Serving as your president has been the honor of a lifetime. I am excited to see what the future holds for the ACC and for all of you. Let's continue shaping the future of cardiovascular medicine – together.

Thank you.