CHICAGO, IL – The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) today announced an exceptional lineup of plenary speakers for the 63rd STS Annual Meeting, taking place Jan. 28-31, 2027, at the San Diego Convention Center.
As the premier global gathering in cardiothoracic surgery, the STS Annual Meeting brings together surgeons, residents, researchers, advanced practice providers, and industry leaders to explore the latest scientific discoveries, surgical techniques, and advances in patient care. Guided by this year’s theme, "Excellence. Evidence. Impact.," attendees will be challenged to think beyond today's practice while examining the leadership principles and forward-thinking ideas that will define the next era of the specialty.
This year's plenary speakers include former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton ; Abridge CEO and founder Shivdev Rao, MD ; Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick, MD , MBA ; and West Virginia University Chancellor Clay B. Marsh, MD . Collectively, these leaders represent the worlds of public service, artificial intelligence, surgery, and healthcare transformation, offering perspectives on leadership, innovation, resilience, and the future of health care. Collectively, these leaders represent the worlds of public service, artificial intelligence, surgery, and healthcare transformation, offering perspectives on leadership, innovation, resilience, and the future of health care.
"We are honored to welcome four remarkable leaders whose achievements have shaped their professions and influenced the world around them," said STS President Vinay Badhwar, MD. "Each speaker has demonstrated the ability to turn bold ideas into meaningful action. Their insights will inspire attendees to consider new perspectives, embrace emerging opportunities, and lead with greater purpose in a rapidly changing world."
The program will feature:
"A Conversation with Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton," offering insights from a lifetime of leadership at the highest levels of government, diplomacy, and public service
"Building and Scaling Enterprise-Grade Clinician Intelligence," presented by Shiv Rao, MD examining how AI is reshaping clinical practice, physician workflows, and patient care
The prestigious Vivien T. Thomas Lecture:
"The Amplification of Humanity in Leadership," by Wayne A. I. Frederick, MD, MBA
"Health Span and the Science of Longevity," by Clay B. Marsh, MD
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About the Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Founded in 1964, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons is a not-for-profit organization representing more than 8,000 cardiothoracic surgeons, researchers, and allied healthcare professionals worldwide who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for surgeries of the heart, lung, and esophagus, as well as other surgical procedures within the chest. The Society’s mission is to enhance the ability of cardiothoracic surgeons to provide the highest quality patient care through education, research, and advocacy.