SAN DIEGO, Calif.—Nick Mamalis, MD, a well-known ophthalmologist and longtime co-editor of the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, assumed his role as president of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) during the ASCRS meeting's opening general session here this past weekend. “This is a pivotal time to be taking the helm of ASCRS,” said Dr. Mamalis. “It has never been more important than today for us to come together to protect the interests of anterior segment surgeons and advance the profession of ophthalmology. ASCRS makes this possible, and I am honored and excited to play a leadership role in shaping our future.”

“Dr. Mamalis is among the most highly respected and credible voice in ophthalmology today. He will be a steady and collaborative voice who commands the respect of our entire executive committee while also being of the more relatable leaders to serve,” said Steve Speares, ASCRS executive director. “We are fortunate to have him as our leader.”

Dr. Mamalis is a professor of ophthalmology at the John A. Moran Eye Center of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah and performs comprehensive ophthalmology and anterior segment surgery. He is the director of the Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory at the University of Utah, the editor of the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and is also a co-director of the Intermountain Ocular Research Center and performs research in the area of intraocular lenses and postoperative inflammation.

He has given several hundred presentations at numerous meetings nationally and internationally, and has given more than 30 invited lectures. Dr Mamalis received his BA in Biochemistry from Harvard University and his Doctor of Medicine at the University of Utah, School of Medicine. He fulfilled a fellowship in ophthalmic pathology at the University of Utah and completed his residency in ophthalmology at Loyola University Medical Center.

The inception of Dr. Mamalis' term coincides with a new rebrand for ASCRS. Determined to distinguish itself as the society dedicated to anterior segment surgeons, ASCRS unveiled a new logo and tagline, For Surgeons. For You., increasing its relevance among current and prospective members, the organization said.

ASCRS' statement said the organization "is eager to advance its reputation as the home to all anterior segment surgeons at every career stage and across all associated sub-specialties." Through ASCRS, members come together to improve the vision, outcomes, and quality of life for patients through:
• Innovative education that's personalized and customizeable to each member's specific needs and interests.
• Innovative advocacy dedicated to advancing policies that empower surgeons to put their patients first in and out of the OR.
• Innovative philanthropy focused on connecting surgeons with opportunities to use their skills to give back to their community.

More information about the ASCRS annual meeting is posted here.