ACC President Roxana Mehran, MD, FACC, has built a career defined by scientific achievement, innovation and a clear commitment to advancing cardiovascular care. The ceremonial passing of the presidential chain from Christopher M. Kramer, MD, MACC, during ACC's annual Convocation at ACC.26 in New Orleans marked the beginning of her one-year term.

As she steps into her new role, Mehran is focused on strengthening the College's global partnerships while maintaining close engagement with members to foster growth, opportunity and impact. Looking ahead, Mehran says she is "optimistic about our future and our collective ability to shape it, guided by science and driven by a commitment to caring for the most vulnerable patients."

A renowned interventional cardiologist, researcher and advocate for women in medicine, Mehran brings a global perspective and a collaborative approach to her presidency. She is an endowed professor of cardiovascular clinical research and outcomes, and a professor of medicine in cardiology and population health science and policy at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she completed fellowships in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology. She is also director of the Women's Heart and Vascular Center at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital, leading a multidisciplinary program designed to address the unique needs of women's cardiovascular health.

Throughout her career, Mehran has led numerous global studies, contributed to the development of clinical guidelines and authored thousands of peer-reviewed publications. She is the founder and chief scientific officer of the Cardiovascular Research Foundation and the founder of Women as One, an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing opportunities for women in medicine. Her dedication to the College is reflected in her longstanding ACC service, including serving as chair of the Interventional Section Leadership Council and contributing as an author on several guidelines.

Cardiologyspoke with Mehran about her inspirations, defining career moments, mentors and mentorship, leadership style, and vision for the future of cardiology.

What initially inspired you to pursue cardiology, and what drew you to your areas of focus?

I was drawn to cardiology early in my medical training, beginning as a medical student, by both the intellectual rigor of cardiovascular physiology and the extraordinary pace of innovation in treating cardiovascular disease. That early enthusiasm led me to pursue internal medicine and ultimately a cardiology fellowship.

During my residency at the University of Connecticut, I had the privilege of working with one of the most influential mentors of my career, Arnold Katz, MD. He introduced me to basic science research and fostered collaborations with exceptional scientists, helping to shape my academic trajectory. During my fellowship at Mount Sinai, under the mentorship of Richard Gorlin, MD; Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, MACC; Andrew R. Marks, MD; John A. Ambrose, MD, FACC; and Milton Packer, MD, FACC; and Samin K Sharma, MD, FACC, I trained alongside extraordinary clinicians and scientists deeply committed to excellence. It was during this time that my passion for bench-to-bedside research crystallized, and the cardiac catheterization laboratory became my professional home – a place where science, innovation and lifesaving patient care converge.

What milestones stand out as defining moments in your professional journey?

There have been many milestones that shaped my journey – most of them rooted in caring for patients and delivering evidence-based, science-driven care. Equally defining were the mentors and sponsors who helped me navigate the challenges of an academic and clinical career. Their guidance and belief in my potential were instrumental and for that I remain deeply grateful.

How did your mentors shape your path? What lessons do you carry forward?

My mentors were foundational to my growth, especially Martin B. Leon, MD, FACC. They saw my potential, energized and encouraged me, and provided thoughtful guidance when opportunities arose. None of what I have achieved would have been possible without their leadership and vision. I, in turn, worked tirelessly to honor that investment. This reciprocal commitment – vision paired with hard work – proved to be a powerful formula for success. It is a model I strive to carry forward with those I mentor today.

How would you describe your leadership style, particularly when driving innovation and collaboration across different teams?

I would describe my leadership style as visionary, optimistic and deeply collaborative. I am enthusiastic about our work, our professional societies and our members. I fundamentally believe that no challenge is insurmountable. With commitment, collaboration, hard work and a shared pursuit of excellence, even the most complex problems can be solved.

What excites you most about stepping into the role of ACC President?

I am honored and excited to assume this unique leadership role within the College. The ACC is a remarkable global organization devoted to improving human health by transforming cardiovascular care. Our members are on the front lines every day seeking evidence, diagnosing diseases and caring for patients.

As President, my role will be to advance the strategic vision set by our Board of Trustees – one that is intentional, forward-looking and focused on meaningful impact. We will work collaboratively across cardiovascular societies worldwide to achieve these goals. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, yet it is also one of the most dynamic fields for innovation and progress. I look forward to working with our exceptional staff and leadership to bring this vision to life.

Is there an area of the ACC's Strategic Plan that you are particularly passionate about?

The ACC's Strategic Plan is built on four interrelated pillars, all of which are critically important. The College serves as the professional home for all cardiovascular professionals, generates and delivers actionable knowledge at the point of care, advances quality with a clear commitment to equity and value, and sustains organizational growth. I am deeply passionate about each of these priorities, as together they create opportunities for innovation, intentional leadership and steadfast commitment to our Mission.

Reflecting on your career, what achievements are you most proud of and why?

While I am proud of my contributions to advancing evidence-based cardiovascular care, my greatest pride comes from promoting and lifting others – particularly women. Addressing the global burden of cardiovascular disease requires a strong, healthy and truly representative workforce. Talent is all around us, and with every step forward, we have a responsibility to reach back and lift others. This principle has guided my entire career. You must lift as you climb!

What advice would you offer ACC members, especially those aspiring to leadership roles?

The opportunities are there to be claimed. The ACC is deeply committed to its members and to ensuring inclusive and representative leadership. My advice – particularly to women – is to be bold, work hard and move beyond imposter syndrome. Your voice, expertise and leadership are needed.

Looking ahead, where do you see the greatest opportunities and challenges for cardiology over the next five years?

While we face significant global challenges, moments of disruption also create extraordinary opportunities. Advances in technology, data science and digital health coupled with a renewed focus on closing gaps in diagnosis and treatment have the potential to be transformative. I remain optimistic about our future and our collective ability to shape it, guided by science and driven by a commitment to caring for the most vulnerable patients.

Outside of your professional life, what are some of your favorite ways to recharge and have fun?

I find great joy in the outdoors, reading, cooking, the arts and, most importantly, time with my family. I recharge by reflecting on how fortunate I am to be surrounded by family, friends and colleagues near and far. I also love New York City for its global perspective and cultural richness, and for what I consider the world's greatest backyard: Central Park.

Keywords: Cardiology Magazine, ACC Publications, CM-May-2026, Interventional Cardiology, Leadership, Mentors