The 62nd STS Annual Meeting, taking place January 29 – February 1, will feature leading surgeons and researchers presenting and debating the latest science and techniques, advancing patient care, and driving the specialty forward.
This year’s theme, “Teaching for Tomorrow Together,” highlights the power of collaboration in shaping the future of cardiothoracic surgery. Through immersive learning and the exchange of ideas, the meeting promotes clinical excellence, innovation, and a stronger, more connected community.
Held at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the four-day meeting offers plenary and breakout sessions, as well as the exhibit hall — all conveniently located to make it easy to navigate and network with colleagues and industry leaders.
Here’s a roadmap to help you maximize your experience.
Main Stage Voices to Inspire and Challenge
Get ready for a lineup of keynotes that bring insight, inspiration, and unforgettable moments:
- Vivien T. Thomas Lecture: Bestselling author Shola Richards shares how fostering psychological safety, preventing burnout, and building collaborative teams help individuals and organizations thrive under pressure.
- Leadership in Adversity: Two-time World Series Champion Terry Francona explores leading through adversity, building trust, and staying focused on a common goal.
- Peak Performance Under Pressure: Globally recognized Peloton instructor Ben Alldis offers strategies for maintaining peak performance, prioritizing well-being, and staying motivated in high-demand environments.
- Surgical Innovation and Leadership: Renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Frank Sellke, MD, examines how innovation, collaboration, and mentorship drive surgical excellence and progress in high-stakes environments.
- Future of Cardiothoracic Care: Medtronic CEO Geoff Martha highlights how visionary thinking, multidisciplinary alignment, and outcome-focused leadership are shaping the next era of cardiothoracic medicine.
The Hub: Your Go-To Destination for Skills, Strategy, and Connection
Returning for its third year, The Hub at the 2026 Annual Meeting is the premier destination for medical students, residents, fellows, and early career surgeons. Conveniently located next to registration, The Hub combines popular features from past years with new opportunities for professional and personal growth.
Throughout the meeting, participants can engage in focused sessions for medical students and residents through the STS Looking to the Future Scholarship program, a trainee symposium, and a resident breakfast and presentation in collaboration with the Thoracic Surgery Residents Association (TSRA). Additional offerings include mock oral exams, job interview preparation, networking with peers and mentors, and a financial management session hosted by The White Coat Investor. Attendees can also connect with representatives from the American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS), TSRA, the Thoracic Surgery Medical Student Association (TSMA), and the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA).
To round out the experience, The Hub will feature complimentary professional headshots and a coffee bar serving cappuccinos and espressos—making it the perfect place to sharpen your skills, build connections, and advance your CT surgery career.
Explore the Exhibit Hall
When you’re between sessions, don’t miss the exhibit hall, where there’s always something happening. More than 125 companies will showcase the latest products, many with interactive learning spaces that feel like hands-on courses. You can also catch presentations from top experts, award-winning poster authors, and industry leaders at one of the two theaters in the hall.
President’s Address & Reception
On Friday, January 30, join STS President Joseph A. Sabik III, MD, as he delivers the Presidential Address, offering a thoughtful reflection on his career, personal milestones, and the evolving future of cardiothoracic surgery and the Society.
That evening, STS will recognize Dr. Sabik’s outstanding contributions with a special reception at Generations Hall — a historic venue, originally built as a sugar mill in the 1820s, that captures the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of New Orleans jazz.
Know NOLA: What’s Buzzing in the Big Easy
Step into the soulful rhythm of New Orleans, a city where history, music, and culture blend into an unforgettable experience. Stroll through the storied streets of the French Quarter, where jazz melodies drift from vibrant clubs and centuries-old architecture tells tales of the past. Explore lively neighborhoods like the Marigny, Garden District, and Treme, each rich with charm and local flavor. From world-renowned festivals like Mardi Gras to the authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine that define its culinary identity, New Orleans pulses with life at every corner. Whether you're drawn by the music, the food, or the deep cultural roots, the Crescent City offers a one-of-a-kind journey for every traveler.
STS TV: Back for Another Season
Once again, STS has partnered with WebsEdge to bring you STS TV, a dynamic video platform designed to enhance your meeting experience. Featuring daily broadcasts, STS TV will showcase cutting-edge research, expert interviews, conference highlights, and attendee perspectives — all focused on the latest innovations in heart, lung, esophageal, and thoracic surgery.
Accessible via the conference website, onsite, through the mobile app, on YouTube, and in hotels within the STS room block, STS TV ensures you stay informed, inspired, and connected throughout the event.
Navigate STS 2026 with the Mobile App
The STS 2026 mobile app puts everything you need for the four-day meeting at your fingertips. Quickly access times and locations for educational sessions, plenaries, hands-on workshops, exhibits, receptions, award ceremonies, industry events, and coffee breaks. Connect with colleagues, stay up to date with daily highlights, and make the most of your Annual Meeting experience. The App will be available for download in early January.
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