I have watched the Israel-Hamas war escalate this week with profound sadness and deep concern for those in our community impacted by the violence, devastation, and loss of life. This is an unjust and deeply troubling event on top of many recent attacks against innocent lives around the world. We stand in solidarity with our colleagues and their families; we condemn these acts of terror.

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.