The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) is an association of individuals who have shared interests, experiences, and traditions since 1899. In the tradition of appreciation, I would like to thank the Society for more than a quarter of a century of personal experiences, led by 26 presidents, who have served as mentors to us all.

In 2007, the ASCRS membership totals 2,674—26 percent of whom are international. Currently, 9 percent are women, and I would like to thank Dr. Ann Lowry, our Immediate-Past President for her support this year. I wish her well as she enters the realm of Past Presidency. I also thank the 12 council members, 37 ASCRS advisors and representatives, 24 committee chairs, 428 committee members, 44 members of the Diseases of the Colon & Rectum editorial board, and our 19-member administrative staff at Executive Administration Inc. (EAI). In addition, I would like to recognize the 19 members serving the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ABCRS), the President, Dr. Herand Abcarian, the Executive Director, Dr. David Schoetz, as well as the 49 members of the Research Foundation, and the President, Dr. Walter Koltun. Finally, we recognize Dr. David Cherry, President of the Association of Program Directors for Colon and Rectal Surgery, for the 47 colon and rectal residency programs in this country.

In total, we have a 660-member workforce in our specialty, which is the engine that drives us forward. I thank members of the U.S. Armed Forces, in particular those ASCRS members who serve and allow us to live in peace in the United States while we perform our clinical duties.