Dear IDSOG Family,

I am honored and humbled to begin my service as President of IDSOG. I want to take a moment to highlight other changes in IDSOG leadership for the coming year. Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Thompson who is joining the executive board as treasurer and welcome Dr. Marissa Young and Dr. Anna Powell, our newest council members. On behalf of the society, I want to express our gratitude to Dr. Gwen Lazenby, now immediate past-President, for all of her exemplary leadership over the past year; Dr. Patrick Ramsey, who completed his term on the executive board; and Dr. Melissa Herbst-Kralovetz and Dr. Olivia Van Gerwen, who completed their terms on IDSOG Council.

To say we are in unprecedented times, would be an understatement. The attacks on science and human rights in the United States have impacts across the globe. In times like these, fostering community can be an incredible source of strength. IDSOG is a scientific home for so many of us – new and established members alike. It is a place for robust scientific exchange, idea generation, and professional networking and support – all in service of addressing infectious diseases and improving the health of women and individuals assigned female sex at birth. Now more than ever, our scientific community is essential for our collective path forward. Over the next year, I look forward to working with you all and continuing to build and grow this beautiful community as we navigate the ever-changing scientific landscape ahead.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Balkus, PhD, MPH