President's Message - January 2026

With Mrs. Claus snugged back in at the North Pole, it is I, Audrie Tornow, returning with your January Alliance President’s message.

We are in the home stretch, preparing for a new year and the 2026 Alliance Annual Conference in Atlanta. In order to be “Future Ready,” here is a quick recap of the agenda:

Monday, Feb. 16

Starts with three Pre-Conference Workshops, as well as the kickoff to our Alliance Leadership Institute, member section meetings, the awards ceremony, poster presentations and an opening reception with over 45 exhibitors.

Tuesday, Feb. 17

Kicks off with the 5K Run/Walk, annual business meeting, and opening keynote where I will be joined by Marcia J. Jackson, PhD, George Mejicano, MD and Rebecca DeVivo, MPH, MSW, CHCP, a full day of amazing sessions, our past president’s reception and 50-year Anniversary Black and Gold Party.

Wednesday, Feb. 18

Wake up to sunrise yoga, our opening keynote with John Whyte, MD, MPH and a second day full of sessions including topics such as program MGMT, evolving trends and educational design.

Thursday, Feb 19

Dr. Mike presents our closing keynote, we have our final sessions, the AOA CME provider workshop and the Golden Anniversary Pyramid with your host, Vince Loffredo.

And the newest update? Our conference is now eligible for up to 20 Certified Association Executive (CAE) credits.

So, remember to register if you haven’t, renew your membership to lock in the best pricing and get plenty of rest before meeting us in Atlanta. 😊

It's countdown time…

2019

• Outcomes Standardization Project was released. We were still meeting in-person and "Avengers: Endgame" became the highest-grossing film of all time.

2020

• The COVID-19 pandemic pivoted most of our live education to virtual. We spent a lot of our days saying “You’re on mute,” and at night, you might have found yourself watching "Tiger King."

In 2021

• Hybrid and online formats dominated CME, and the Tokyo Summer Olympics finally took place after a one-year delay.

And in 2022

• The Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education were released in December 2020 and went into effect on January 1, 2022, replacing the Standards for Commercial Support: Standards to Ensure Independence in CME Activities. 

Well, I can’t wait to see you all in a few weeks. Pack your comfy shoes, your sparkle and your smile.