THE SIXTH IMSA
NATIONAL CONVENTION
Chicago, Illinois
May 23-25, 2008
2008 IMSA Convention: At a Glance
The 6th National IMSA Convention in Chicago, Illinois was the most attended National IMSA Convention since its inception in 1998. The convention was held in the Chicago InterContinental Hotel, a five-star hotel in downtown Chicago on the famous Michigan Avenue.
Friday, May 23rd started with registration and cocktails, where IMSA members and their families met and mingled with each other in a friendly, cordial environment. Short welcoming speeches were given by the IMSA President, Dr. Riad Almudallal and IMSA Secretary Dr. Arkan Al-Rashid. The members later enjoyed an evening in Chicago’s diverse nightlife.
On Saturday, May 24th the scientific program began with a continental breakfast for the registrants and a welcoming speech from scientific committee co-chair, Dr. Saad Shakir. This was followed by CME lectures presented by our volunteer IMSA Iraqi medical professionals. The lunch program started with a welcoming speech by the IMSA president, Dr. Almudallal. Scientific committee co-chair, Dr. Zayd Eldahda presented CME lecturers with honorary plaques in recognition for their services. During lunch, Dr. William Kennedy Smith provided a presentation on Telemedicine and iCons in Medicine programs as new technology to build bridges with the Iraqi healthcare system. Dr. Michael Brennan then lectured about the CME program for Iraqi medical professionals in Iraq.
During the evening on Saturday, the IMSA members attended the convention’s gala. The gala was attended by 480 members and their families. The ceremony began with an essay written and presented by the Master of Ceremony, Dr. Abdullah Aldamluji. The members and their families then partook in proudly singing Iraq’s national anthem, “Mawtani”. Dinner and dancing were enjoyed by all. Music was provided by an Iraqi band from Michigan called “Al-Shams”.
Sunday, May 25th, began with a general assembly meeting attended by the active IMSA members who were present. This meeting was followed by a brunch attended by members and their families. The afternoon was free for members to enjoy the city’s attractions.
The convention was concluded with an evening of music, food, Arabic dancing and culture at the renowned Alhambra Palace.
Everyone had a greatly enjoyable experience at this year’s convention, and we’re looking forward to the 2009 IMSA national convention.