Governance

It is a true privilege to begin my term as President of the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver (CASL). I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve such a vibrant and dedicated community of clinicians, researchers, trainees, nurses, and partners.

CASL plays a unique and essential role in connecting the Canadian hepatology community. As President, my vision is to further strengthen CASL as a national hub for collaboration, education, and innovation. By bringing together expertise across disciplines, regions, and career stages, we can help shape the future of hepatology in Canada—advancing science, improving care, and translating knowledge into meaningful impact for patients and communities.

Expanding national and international collaborations will be a key priority during my term. By strengthening our connections with leading hepatology organizations and global multidisciplinary networks, we can bring cutting-edge science, innovative initiatives, and best-practice guidance to Canada—while also amplifying the important contributions of Canadian hepatology on the world stage. These partnerships will open new opportunities for collaboration, training, and shared learning for our members.

Equally important is our commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaged community that embraces the diversity of perspectives, expertise, and experiences within CASL. Together with the CASL Executive Committee, we will continue to expand accessible, bilingual educational opportunities and strengthen connections across regions, disciplines, and career stages. Supporting the next generation of hepatologists—our trainees and early-career members—will be central to this vision, as their ideas, energy, and leadership will shape the future of liver research and care in Canada.

At the heart of CASL’s mission is the impact we create for patients and communities affected by liver disease. By working together, we can advance prevention, early detection, and better care for those we serve.

I look forward to working closely with the CASL Executive, committees, Special Interest Groups, affiliates, partners, and—most importantly—our members. Together, we will continue to strengthen CASL’s role as a national leader and trusted voice in hepatology, advancing liver health across Canada and beyond.

As Helen Keller once wrote, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This spirit of collaboration defines CASL and will continue to guide us.
I am excited for the work ahead and for all that we will achieve together.

CASL President | Dr. Giada Sebastiani