A FULL room of #GIfellows connecting with @AmCollegeGastro leadership at today’s Fireside Chat! 👏 What made this conversation so valuable wasn’t just hearing about leadership positions. It was hearing the stories behind them. Our ACG leaders shared their WHY. Why they first got involved, how their journeys evolved, the unexpected pivots along the way, and what has kept them engaged even when their professional and personal plates were already full. One message really resonated: We don’t get involved because we have extra time. We get involved because we want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether through committee service, advocacy, the Board of Governors, or other initiatives, there are so many ways to contribute to the future of our field. The key is finding where your interests and passions align with opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Another important takeaway? Build your network beyond your own institution. We all need mentors, but we also need sponsors - people who know our work, believe in our potential, advocate for us when we’re not in the room, and open doors we may not even know exist. Those relationships don’t happen overnight. They start by showing up, connecting, contributing, and staying engaged. And perhaps the best advice for our fellows: You don’t need to have your entire leadership journey mapped out. Careers evolve, interests change, and sometimes the most meaningful opportunities come from unexpected pivots. Grateful to our ACG leaders for sharing their experiences so candidly and to the fellows who filled the room, asked thoughtful questions, and are already thinking about how they can help shape the future of GI. Get involved. Build relationships. Find your people. And be part of something bigger. #ACG2026 #GILeadership #Mentorship #GIfellows