Dear colleagues, friends, and gynecologic oncology community,
We started off the year commemorating the 55th year of our beloved Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) and celebrating the legacy and significant contribution of the Foundation of Women’s Cancer (FWC). We shared that number fifty-five symbolizes major life changes, new experiences, and growth. As such, we have tackled the rapid onset of chemotherapy shortages, and built meaningful partnerships in the power of shared purpose. Now, we share yet another major life change. On June 27, Pierre Désy, Chief Executive Officer of SGO and FWC, announced he will transition from his current role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on September 30, 2023.
As we celebrate Pierre’s many contributions over the last seven years, we recognize that the SGO/FWC is on a strong trajectory of growth and expansion in our scientific mission, and in service and support of our growing SGO membership and our gynecologic cancer community. Pierre has shared that he has valued his time with our organizations and from the moment he met the gynecologic oncology community he “fell in love with our passion and our cause.”
Pierre came to the SGO/FWC with a history of working as a senior executive in association management. He held several high-profile positions including Director of the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Injury Prevention Institute, then served as Chief Development Officer at the ENA. He was the Executive Director at the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (IAOMS). In 2016, we were thrilled when Pierre joined the SGO/FWC as CEO, bringing a strong desire and passion for working with the SGO and FWC Board of Directors, Executive Committee, staff, members and stakeholders to advance the organizations’ missions.
Under Pierre’s leadership, we were able to successfully unite and catapult the growth of SGO and FWC into a new era of two cohesive and strongly aligned organizations. The alignment allowed both organizations to work synergistically with combined professional staff members, volunteer members, and united organizational structures to streamline operations and attain new heights. Currently, the SGO enjoys a growing, vibrant and diverse membership, with record-breaking attendance at each of our three signature educational meetings – the SGO Allied Meeting, the SGO Winter Meeting, and the SGO Annual Meeting. In parallel, the FWC has crossed a significant milestone in total distribution of over $10 million in FWC research grants and prizes. These achievements have enduring and broad impact showcasing the significant presence of Pierre’s leadership and work. We so appreciate his contributions, his consummate professionalism and commitment to our specialty, his affable charm and engaging presence.
For next steps, the SGO and FWC Board of Directors will convene to assure a seamless leadership transition plan. Together, we will continue forward with energy, momentum and the Power of Shared Purpose as we accelerate continued growth and build a transformational future for the Society, the Foundation, and the entire gynecologic oncology community.
Angeles Alvarez Secord, MD, MHSc
SGO President
Ginger Gardner, MD
FWC Chair