Melissa Ferrari, CAE
Executive Director
Fortunate — that’s my word! When asked how I would label a reflection on the last year and my prediction for the year to come, it was easy for me to sum up both with one word. Don’t get me wrong, there have been challenges, transitions, hurdles, learning opportunities, and new administration curve balls, to name a few. However, through the commitment and professionalism of the ACPM staff team to the unwavering support and leadership of the Board to the dedication and passion of our members, the College continued to build on a solid legacy of 70 years.
While we paused to capture the full breadth and depth of ACPM’s history in the recently published Moments and Momentum — 70 Years of Proven Prevention: Leadership for Tomorrow, the current work “behind the scenes” continued. Efforts to ensure ACPM’s financial stability and longevity continued. Building member value and recognizing the contributions of our specialty’s leaders continued. Partnering with federal and public health organizations to develop learning opportunities, guidelines and resources to improve health outcomes continued. Creating new connections for our members continued. Amplifying the voice of Preventive Medicine in the halls of Congress continued. Bringing together voices in the field to share research or address issues, such as rural health, Veteran’s health and emergency preparedness, continued.
While I can provide insight into ACPM’s work over the past year, I am going to let the 2025 ACPM Annual Report tell the story! I am truly and deeply honored to share this publication — it reflects what WE have accomplished together and reflects how WE have advanced the ACPM mission through collective commitment.
When you read through the report, I hope you get the same smile across your face and sense of pride I felt in being part of the College. I am beyond words of appreciation for the ACPM staff team who work tirelessly to support you — our members — and deliver on the promise of making ACPM your professional home.
As we embark on 2026, a quote by Dag Hammarskjöld, economist and former Secretary-General of the UN, hits home, “For all that has been, thanks. To all that shall be, yes.” This will be another transitional, pivotal and exciting year for the College, and I look forward to embracing the opportunities for us to continue to evolve and grow. Through the commitment of our members, volunteer leaders, partners and staff, we will focus on strengthening our mission, learning from challenges, and ensuring a foundation for lasting impact in preventive medicine and public health. Thank you for your ongoing support for ACPM and best wishes for health and happiness in 2026!
