The California Society of Anesthesiologists convened its House of Delegates (HOD) on May 31–June 1, 2025, in Newport Beach. The meeting, led by President Dr. Philip Levin and Speaker Dr. Robin Seaberg, gathered over 80 delegates and numerous guests, including past CSA Presidents and candidates for national ASA offices.
Key Highlights:
Leadership and Recognition
- Dr. Karen Sibert received the prestigious 2025 CSA Distinguished Service Award.
- Mr. David Butler was elected the 2026 DSA recipient.
- Outgoing President Dr. Philip Levin was honored with Lifetime Membership and a plaque recognizing his dedicated service.
- Dr. Christina Menor was officially installed as CSA President for 2025–2026.
Celebrating the CSA Foundation for Education and Dr. Merlin Larson
A special luncheon was held to honor the CSA Foundation for Education and Dr. Merlin Larson, Professor Emeritus at UCSF, former Vice Chair of the Arthur E. Guedel Memorial Anesthesia Center, and member of the CSA Committee on the History of Anesthesia.
Legislation and Advocacy
- The Legislative & Practice Affairs Division reported on CSA’s strong advocacy efforts, including key state legislation and regulatory activity.
- A resolution was approved urging CSA to support legislation allowing anesthesiologists to directly bill Medi-Cal Dental for services.
Education and Programs
- Updates were shared on CSA’s educational programs, including successful meetings and future planning.
Membership Engagement
- CSA reported positive trends in membership and shared ongoing efforts to enhance recruitment and engagement, particularly through outreach to medical students.
Key Approvals
- Early Career Dues: Approved increase to $299 for a three-year membership.
- Communications Division: A new division was created, replacing the existing Committee on Public and Professional Communications.
- Bylaws Updates: Various changes were approved, including updates to membership categories, clarity on the President Emeritus role, and non-substantive editorial updates.
Elections and Appointments
- The slate of officers recommended by the Committee on Leadership Development and Nominations (CoLDaN) was elected by unanimous voice vote. View the full Board of Directors here.
In Memoriam
The House observed a moment of silence for CSA members who passed away, including Past President Dr. H. Douglas Roberts and esteemed educators Drs. Kathryn Rouine-Rapp, Ronald Miller, Philip Lumb, and Jay Arthur Avila II.
