What a Meeting! Reflections on Puerto Rico & Looking Ahead to Lima

On the flight home, Michelle looked over at me and said, “This is the only meeting you leave smiling.” That really struck me. I do attend my fair share of meetings, after all. But the more I thought about it, the more it made perfect sense.

Most people think of neurosurgery as individual physicians delivering care, one patient at a time. But the older I get, the more I realize—neurosurgery is a community. A community of phenomenal surgeons, brilliant scientists, team-builders, and difference-makers—with wonderful families beside them. And no organization represents that spirit better than the Society of University Neurosurgeons (SUNS). I could not be more proud to be part of the very best that neurosurgery has to offer.

Wow! What a meeting we had in Puerto Rico! The location was stunning, the scientific program was outstanding, the weather was perfect—and the company was even better.

A special thanks is in order for Rich, who served as our President this past year. He’s truly a leader among leaders and set such a high bar for both the presidency and the annual meeting. I also want to thank his wife, Wanda, for all she did to help create such a memorable trip. Our local host, Ivan, was the ultimate host—and his talk on a life “above the clouds” was unforgettable.  As always, Stacy and Roberto provided their steady guidance to make everything run smoothly. We are fortunate beyond words to have them in this organization. And Marjorie—the Smith’s truly embody everything SUNS represents!

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be yet another “greatest meeting ever!” Victor Benllochpiquer—whom many of you met in San Juan—will be our local host. Lima is the perfect destination: a world-class city known for its beaches, history, culture, and—of course—its’ phenomenal cuisine. We’ll be staying at the JW Marriott Hotel Lima in Miraflores, perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The dates are June 28th to July 2nd—please mark your calendars! We’ll enjoy the company of our Peruvian colleagues, engage in stimulating scientific discussions, and savor a culinary scene that ranks among the best in the world—all while soaking in the beauty and history of Lima.

One final note—this may be Marjorie’s last SUNS meeting. I encourage everyone to send her a personal note at smithmrs@sbcglobal.net. She has meant so much to this organization, and I know she would deeply appreciate hearing from you.

Once again, Michelle and I had such a wonderful time with all of you in Puerto Rico! We can’t wait to see everyone again next summer in one of South America’s premier destinations – Lima, Peru!

Sincerely,

Current SUN Officers

ACCME Accreditation Statement

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint Providership of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) and the Society of University Neurosurgeons. The CNS is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

AMA Accreditation Statement

The CNS designates this live activity for a maximum of XX AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.