Leading From Every Corner of OMS — Message From ACOMS President Rui Fernandes, MD, DMD

Dear Colleagues,

If you spent your career as a maître d', wouldn’t you be curious about the day-to-day experience of a chef in the back of the house? That’s how I felt a few years ago. My early career followed a traditional path: after completing my fellowship in head, neck, and microvascular surgery, I entered academia and progressed steadily toward professorship. While I was focused on this side of the “house,” I consistently sought opportunities to learn from the experiences of others. Serving on committees and engaging with professional associations in OMS broadened my perspective and ultimately led me to my current role as president of ACOMS.

That curiosity eventually steered me to explore the other side of the “house” more seriously. I enrolled in the Surgical Leadership Program at Harvard Medical School — a year-long experience that deepened my understanding of health care systems and leadership. Completing the program enabled my professional pivot beyond clinical practice, and I ventured into an administrative role. I now oversee medical oncologic services across a regional medical system and am helping lead the development of a new cancer center.

Pivoting into new territory often stretches us to the edge of our comfort zones — but that’s where growth begins. Even if you’re not considering a full pivot, exploring the daily lives and perspectives of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in different spaces can reignite your professional excitement. It’s easy to feel stagnant when performing the same procedures day after day. Seeking out opportunities for growth — whether by joining a committee, collaborating across disciplines, or serving through your institution — can keep your work fresh and meaningful. When approached with a genuine desire to better serve your community, these experiences open doors.

I’ve long been involved in professional associations, including ACOMS, which continue to fuel my passion for our field. Now, as president, I hope to extend that spark to all our members. One of my top priorities is fostering connection across associations and borders. I currently serve as president-elect of the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and look forward to using that synergy to strengthen both communities. Reaching across boundaries of all kinds is central to my vision for ACOMS.

ACOMS remains an inclusive college, and we welcome everyone who wants to contribute. Please reach out and get involved. A simple but powerful way to support our growth is to renew your membership and attend our annual events. I’m especially excited about our upcoming conference in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, from May 2 to 4, 2026. It promises to be one of our most dynamic gatherings yet, with hands-on training, symposia, and opportunities for meaningful engagement. I already have it marked on my calendar — I hope you do, too!

I look forward to seeing you, your colleagues, and your families there — and to connecting in the meantime.

Warmly,

Rui Fernandes, MD, DMD, FACS, FRCS

President, ACOMS