During the course of my presidency, I will focus on the translation of science into medicine. Specifically, I will work to ensure the society expands our global engagement with clinicians and regulatory agencies to bring proven stem cell therapies to the patients who need them — and ensure that our physician colleagues have the tools and knowledge to actualize these therapies.

This June marks the 10-year anniversary of your society journal, Stem Cell Reports.  It also marks a key milestone in our mission to share excellent research around the world. Today, the journal serves you – our international stem cell community.

Each year, as thousands of colleagues gather for the ISSCR Annual Meeting, I’m reminded of the deep partnerships that make up our international community. It’s a reminder that we’re strongest when we work together.

As an organization, the ISSCR lives by the same philosophy. We’re forming new partnerships that amplify our voice, make our work most impactful, and add diversity in perspective and expertise.

The ISSCR hosted its second Congressional Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. on March 2, which was a great success. A group of 20 ISSCR members and staff met with nearly 40 offices of key legislators to advocate for an increase in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for FY 2024, discuss the importance of access to fetal tissue for research, and explain the value of chimeric embryo research.

The ISSCR is deeply committed to supporting and defending stem cell research by advocating for science-based legislative and regulatory policies. Our society has been a steadfast advocate for our international community for many years. The investment in our advocacy work, led by Public Policy Committee Chair Sean Morrison, offers the ISSCR increasing opportunities to shape conversations and inform policy.