ACC.25 is one for the books. Over three unforgettable days in Chicago, the Annual Scientific Session brought together the very best of cardiovascular science, education and community in ways that were more interactive, joyful and energizing than ever before.

From the moment the Main Tent opened, we wanted this year to be something special – and we delivered. Thanks to my incredible partners Vice Chair Julie Damp, MD, FACC, and CV Team Lead Kim Guibone, APRN, DNP, FACC, and the entire planning team, faculty and incredible ACC staff, the meeting was a dynamic experience that integrated groundbreaking science with state-of-the-art clinical management that reminded us all why lifelong learning – with colleagues and friends – is so vital.

Science remained front and center, with a record-breaking 17% increase in abstract, case and Late-Breaking Clinical Trial (LBCT) submissions compared with last year. Major trials like STRIDE, API-CAT and SOUL were just a few of the over 50 clinical presentations that spanned LBCTs and Featured Clinical Research – each one advancing the field and improving care for all across the globe.

Beyond the podium, attendees had endless opportunities to dive deeper, through intimate Fireside Chats, lively Town Halls and hands-on skills labs. A strong emphasis on guideline-focused education made it easy to take home practical insights, including a full slate of sessions on new and updated guidelines for ACS, PAD, HCM and more.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a hot topic throughout the meeting, with dedicated Intensive sessions and integrated discussions across learning pathways, reflecting AI's growing role in every aspect of cardiovascular care.

Of course, it wouldn't be ACC without a little friendly competition to dial up the learning fun. The Gameshow Room returned with cardiology-inspired takes on Who Wants to be a Millionaire, Family Feud and more, while the always-popular FIT Jeopardy tournament brought a packed crowd to the Engage Stage. The all-new Lounge & Learn Pavilion was a constant hub of activity, with zones for connecting, relaxing and learning – plus a heart-pounding Critical Care Escape Room!

The Expo Hall featured over 250 exhibitors and several attendee favorites, posters, health screenings and puppies. Also not to be missed, the Future Hub provided a forum for showcasing emerging ideas and tools that promise to transform care delivery, while the Health Equity Hub – now in its third year – sparked vital conversations and partnerships aimed at creating a more equitable future for all patients.

If you missed anything or just want to relive your favorite sessions, ACC Anywhere provides on-demand access to all of the meeting's classroom sessions, scientific presentations and even the Heart2Heart gatherings.

ACC.25 reminded us all that when science, connection and joy come together, incredible things happen. Here's to building on this momentum and making ACC.26 even better. See you in New Orleans!

Katie Berlacher, MD, MS, FACC
Chair, ACC Annual Scientific Session

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