New Updates & What to Expect in Hawai’i

The annual meeting is quickly approaching, and I want to provide a few updates about our meeting in Hawaii

New This Year!

As I mentioned in my blog last October, we are introducing additional language moderators to help minimize language barriers. This initiative will be tried out in some of our Oral Sessions, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who have stepped up.

The primary goal of these language moderators is to ensure that Q&A sessions are as productive as possible. As an international community, it is our shared responsibility to communicate in a way that is clear and understandable for everyone. For those planning to ask questions (yes, that’s all of you!), I encourage you to keep your questions simple and straightforward. While I understand that indirect or circumferential questioning is often intended to be polite, it can lead to confusion for non-native speakers. To avoid this, let’s stick to a simple guideline: Keep It Simple and Straightforward (KISS).

Streamlining the ISMRM Annual Meeting

Next, I’d like to address our ongoing efforts to simplify the structure of the annual meeting. As highlighted in my September blog, some participants have shared feedback that the meeting has become too large and complex.  In response, we’ve made a few adjustments. For instance, there will be no Thursday Sunrise Sessions (yay!). Trimming down sessions means we will conclude the final day earlier than usual, and you will have a chance to enjoy the “magic hour” during your last evening in Honolulu at the Closing Party. For those who are unfamiliar, the magic hour refers to the time around sunset when the light is soft and diffused—perfect for enjoying the rooftop of the convention center. Fingers crossed for clear skies. It’s going to be a lot of fun!

Important Reminders

Finally, I have a couple of reminders. First, the deadline for late-breaking abstracts is approaching. There are two categories this year, namely sustainability and unmet needs. Please submit your abstract by 19 March 2025.

Second, a reminder for all the presenters: your presence at the venue is essential. Building direct communication is vital for advancing our field, so please book your flights and accommodations. And don’t forget to register!

Kei Yamada, M.D., Ph.D.
2025 Annual Meeting Program Chair