AAGL24: Let the Good Times Roll!
The MIGS premier educational event of the year, the AAGL Global Congress in New Orleans, Louisiana, is also the best place for networking with your colleagues, learning about the latest in advances in the industry, and letting the good times roll.
There is still time to join the growing number of surgeons from around the world who have committed to attend. Registration numbers are significantly up this year, and I am looking forward to seeing so many familiar faces. Please note that the AAGL’s discounted block of hotel rooms is filling up quickly and will sell out. When this happens, attendees can find accommodations through local hotel’s published rates, based on their availability. Make the decision to register today!
If you haven’t looked over our highly anticipated Scientific Program, I encourage you to do so! If the quality education alone doesn’t tempt you to attend, we also have an intriguing Exhibit Hall and not-to-miss social events. Exhibit Hall registration is also booming with 73 (and counting) industry booths demonstrating the latest advances in women’s healthcare. The Exhibit Hall Welcome reception will be held from 5:30pm-7:30pm on Sunday, November 17th, directly following the Opening Ceremony in General Session I. Just follow the sounds of live music and friends, new and old, getting acquainted!
On Monday and Tuesday, the Exhibit Hall will be open from 8:00am – 9:30 am and 12:00-2:00pm. Come by for engaging product theater presentations, to pick up breakfast and lunch, and to visit the many exciting booths ready to showcase the greatest advances in our field including those of our Corporate Sponsors: Intuitive Surgical, Hologic, Gynesonics, Caldera Medical, Medtronic, Karl Storz Endoscopy America, Applied Medical Resources, CooperSurgical, and Olympus America.
In addition, General Session III speaker, Dr. Geeta Lal will be available in her booth to provide mini-coaching sessions for improved ergonomics during Exhibit Hall hours. To book a session with her, simply record a brief, 2-minute, intraoperative video and sign up for your 20-minute time slot in advance. These coaching sessions are $100.00 and are payable at booking. You can also learn more about protecting your practice through healthy ergonomics and schedule a virtual session with her through her website.
You are each invited to stop by the AAGL booth where we will be hosting EMIGS demonstrations, podcasts on a variety of topics, and treats representing the cuisine of New Orleans. Show AAGL staff in the booth your President’s Masquerade Party ticket and receive a free mask (while supplies last)!
After hours Monday and Tuesday night are all about the AAGL Social Events. Monday evening the Foundation of the AAGL Awards Ceremony and Gala will be held at the glamorous Fillmore at Ceasars New Orleans from 7:30pm – midnight. The evening will kick off with a welcome ‘networking’ reception, live and silent auctions, a delicious dinner, recognition of the Foundation of the AAGL 2024 Noteworthy, Signature and Scholarship award winners, and conclude with dessert and dancing. Tickets are on sale now to reserve a dinner seat or to purchase a VIP table for 10. Tickets can also be purchased at the door at a slightly higher rate, though dinner table seating must be reserved in advance.
Proceeds from this event will benefit the FAAGL’s incredible Global Outreach program. The FAAGL Board has chosen two highly impactful programs to support with the funds raised at this year’s event: The Hem Project and The McKinney Foundation. The Hem Project provides “Lap on Wheels,” mobile equipment that makes laparoscopic surgery accessible for women in Kenya. Second, The McKinney Foundation is establishing minimally invasive gynecologic surgery for residents of Grenada who currently have very limited access to care. Donations will support equipment, supplies, training, and direct support for this Foundation. Silent and Live Auctions will offer up desirable packages such as dream getaways, concert tickets, hotel stays, highly sought observerships with some of the AAGL’s most respected surgeons, and more. Come party for a purpose! It is certain to be a night of inspiration, comradery, and fun!
After a full Congress of soaking in the stimulating educational offerings, celebrate the mystique of New Orleans and let loose at the President’s Masquerade Party held Tuesday night, from 8:00pm-midnight at the historic Antoine’s Restaurant. This event promises mystery, glamour, and celebration. Wear your finest cocktail attire and a mask to enhance the intrigue. Enjoy live entertainment, dancing, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and crafted cocktails while mingling with your colleagues in a magical setting. Tickets are available now on the Global Congress registration website or for additional fee on site.
These social events are fantastic opportunities for networking, soaking in the culture of New Orleans, spending time with valued friends, and celebrating the accomplishments of our field. They are essential for creating the long-lasting relationships and mentoring that AAGL is known for. I highly encourage you to attend.
See you soon in New Orleans!
