William J. Quinones-Baldrich, MD
President, Western Vascular Society


Dear Members and Colleagues:

The Western Vascular Society is the premier organization of vascular specialists from 14 western US States, Alberta, British Columbia, and the Pacific Rim.  Founded in 1986 by a group of visionary vascular surgeons, the society has grown to over 200 members selected because of their excellence in clinical care and contributions to vascular science and education.  They provide vascular services for more than 80 million lives within their region.  The quality of its membership is reflected in its annual meeting, characterized by excellent presentations, honest discussions, and a superb social program.

We invite you to the 27th annual meeting of the Western Vascular Society, September 22-25, 2012 at the Stein Eriksen Lodge in Park City, Utah.  The "Lodge" is a year-round full-service luxury hotel situated on the pristine slopes of Deer Valley.  Combining European elegance and mountain architecture, the Stein Eriksen Lodge received the 2011 Forbes 5 Star Hotel and Spa award, the industries' highest designation, joining an elite group of 29 Spas in the world.

The Annual meeting will reflect the breadth of experience, expertise, and research efforts of its members.  We encourage you to submit your best work for consideration by the program committee.  The meeting will begin on Saturday, September 22, 2012, with a welcoming reception at 6:30 p.m. and the first plenary session will be on Sunday morning.  We will continue to provide the Residents Forum where residents and students present and discuss their ongoing research and projects. The Society will be sponsoring senior medical students from each medical school in the Western region to attend our meeting providing an opportunity to interact with young physicians interested in a vascular specialty. There will be plenary sessions on Monday and Tuesday mornings. 

The President's invited guest will be Dr. Roy Greenberg who will present an update on endovascular alternatives for thoracoabdominal aortic pathology. Dr. Ben Starnes and the program committee are planning luncheon sessions on specific topics that will follow the plenary sessions. We anticipate an outstanding scientific program complemented by the traditionally excellent social events where members and guests can interact in a relaxed atmosphere.  Several members are planning a golf tournament prior to the meeting on Saturday, September 22, 2012. 

Please save the dates and plan to attend the next meeting of the Western Vascular Society, September 22-25, 2012.