The Canadian Cardiovascular Society Academy: Celebrating 25 Years

Established in the year 2000, the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Academy (CCSA) commemorates its 25^th anniversary this year. This milestone embodies a perfect opportunity to reflect on the Academy’s journey and mission to support education, research, scholarships and bursaries for medical students and prospective cardiovascular specialists. Stay tuned over the coming months as we profile CCS members who have benefitted from and contributed to the CCSA’s important work over the years.  

Today, Dr. Martin Gardner, the current CCSA Board President, shares insights into his involvement with the CCSA and its role in shaping the careers of young cardiovascular clinicians and scientists.

As a member of over four decades, Dr. Gardner’s journey with the CCS began in 1980. His participation gradually evolved, eventually leading to his current role. “I was always a contributor and faculty member,” Dr. Gardner reminisces, “but it wasn’t until 2017 that I officially joined the CCSA Board, eventually assuming the position of Chair.”

The CCSA’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of young cardiovascular specialists and researchers resonated with Dr. Gardner. “I believed in the mission,” he explains, “and enjoyed participating in the trainee initiatives during the CCS annual meeting each year.” He counts the trainee program at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress (CCC) among his favorite CCSA programs. “Being able to shape the future of our field is truly rewarding,” he says.

Thousands of trainees and early career members have taken part in CCSA programming over the past 25 years – from Trainee Review Programs to the annual Have a Heart Bursary and Dr. Charles Kerr Award, the Trainee Program and Trainee Networking Luncheon at CCC, and the Future Leaders Program. These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cardiovascular care in Canada. “CCSA activities and programming are critical,” asserts Dr. Gardner. “Their success is seen in the graduates who provide optimal cardiac care, serve as teachers for future trainees, and contribute actively to research in our communities.”

As CCS trainees become early career members and early career members become regular members, it’s important for those who have benefited from CCSA programming to pay it forward. “Promoting the benefits of the CCSA and encouraging donations are essential steps in nurturing the next generation of trainees.”

Looking ahead to the next 25 years, Dr. Gardner envisions an expanded early career program and a concerted effort to increase donations to the CCSA, including estate contributions. “My hope is to see a flourishing community of future cardiovascular healthcare leaders,” he says, “supported by robust programs and sustained by the generosity of our members.”

Congratulations to the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Academy on 25 years of programming for medical students, prospective cardiovascular specialists, scientists in training and current cardiovascular trainees. Here’s to many more!