The CUA annual meeting: Reconnecting, rejuvenating, and reinforcing our sense of community

Dear Friends,

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our immediate past president, Dr. Armen Aprikian, for his leadership and dedication during his tenure. Under his guidance, the association achieved significant milestones and he has shepherded along several of our strategic goals dedicated to the health of the CUA and its mission.

Furthermore, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the scientific program co-chairs (Drs. Lysanne Campeau and Girish Kulkarni), the organizing committee, as well as the whole CUA team, for the recent annual meeting held in Montreal. The event was an outstanding success, bringing together experts, researchers, and practitioners from across the country and beyond, with 962 attendees — a record number. The scientific program was thoughtfully curated, featuring cutting-edge research presentations, lively discussions, and insightful educational fora on subjects we routinely see in our clinics but rarely discuss at length at our meetings. The rich exchange of knowledge and experiences has undoubtedly furthered our understanding of these urological issues and enhanced our collective ability to deliver exceptional patient care. Personally, starting off the conference with a discussion of physician wellness set a contemplative tone for the whole weekend.

Coming out of the challenging times of the pandemic, we recognize the significance of our annual meetings now more than ever. These gatherings serve as a platform for us to reconnect, rejuvenate, and reinforce our sense of community within the Canadian Urological Association. For our trainees, including residents, medical students, and fellows, these meetings are particularly crucial. They provide a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned experts, present their research, and network with future colleagues across the country. The educational sessions and mentorship opportunities offered during our annual meetings play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urology and nurturing the growth of our next generation.

Looking ahead, it is my pleasure to announce that our next annual meeting will be held in the picturesque coastal city of Victoria, BC, in June of 2024. Known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, Victoria offers the perfect backdrop for us to convene and engage in an event that has become such a highlight of our professional year. The organizing committee (powered by Drs. Andrea Lantz Powers and Mike Leveridge) is already hard at work, crafting an exciting program that will encompass the breadth and depth of urology. I invite each and every one of you to mark your calendars (June 29 to July 1) and join us in Victoria for what promises to be an exceptional event filled with knowledge sharing, networking opportunities, and the chance to explore the wonders of this captivating city.

Once again, congratulations to Dr. Aprikian, and a sincere thank you to all our dedicated members for their continuous support. Together, we will strive to advance the field of urology, enhance patient care, and strengthen the Canadian Urological Association.