American Society for Reproductive Medicine Announces New Board Members
BALTIMORE, MD — The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) today announced six incoming members of its Board of Directors. The incoming leaders bring a broad range of perspectives spanning reproductive endocrinology, embryology, reproductive surgery, clinical practice, research and scientific publishing.
“ASRM’s strength comes from the expertise and dedication of the professionals who make up our community, and I am thrilled to welcome this accomplished group of leaders to the Board,” said Robert E. Brannigan, MD, outgoing President of ASRM. “Each brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing reproductive medicine, and I am confident their leadership will help ASRM continue driving scientific progress, supporting our members and advocating for patients and providers at a critical time for reproductive health care.”
The incoming board members include:
- Amy E. T. Sparks, PhD, HCLD — President: Dr. Sparks is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Iowa, where she has directed the university's andrology and IVF lavs since 1993. Board certified in Embryology and Andrology, she has dedicated her career to improving patient outcomes through cost-effective, evidence-based laboratory practices, with an emphasis on elective single embryo transfer. She previously served as President of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), co-President of the Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists and Chair of the SART Registry Committee.
- James P. Toner, MD, PhD — President-Elect: Dr. Toner is a Professor in the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Emory University School of Medicine. His research has focused on ovarian reserve, luteal support and third-party reproduction, including studies of national trends and outcomes in assisted reproductive technology. He previously served as President of SART and as ASRM Secretary-Treasurer from 2014 to 2023. In his capacity as President-Elect, Dr. Toner will leverage his deep experience to guide the profession, advance clinical and safety standards, and expand access to fertility care for providers and patients nationwide. He will assume the presidency in 2028.
- Samantha Pfeifer, MD — Vice President: Dr. Pfeifer is a Professor of Clinical Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medical College, specializing in reproductive surgery, female infertility, fertility preservation and Müllerian anomalies. She has held numerous leadership positions within ASRM, including serving on its Board of Directors, chairing the Practice Committee and serving as President of the Society of Reproductive Surgeons. During her tenure as Practice Committee Chair, she oversaw the publication of more than 60 clinical guidelines and opinions. She also led the ASRM task force that developed the Müllerian Anomalies Classification (MAC2021), an important resource for reproductive medicine professionals.
- Paul Lin, MD — Secretary-Treasurer: Dr. Lin is a founding partner of Seattle Reproductive Medicine and practices reproductive medicine and surgery with Pinnacle Fertility Washington. He previously served as President of SART from 2019 to 2020 and as a Director at Large on ASRM’s Board since 2023. He currently chairs the ASRM Finance Committee.
- Peter McGovern, MD — Director at Large-Finance: Dr. McGovern is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, where he also serves as Associate Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship Director. He is the IVF Program Medical Director and Co-Director of the Gamete Donation Program at University Reproductive Associates, where he has held leadership roles since 2006, and he previously served as Clinical Director of SART and on several SART committees. His experience spanning academic medicine, private practice and financial management will inform his work supporting ASRM's financial stewardship.
- Ginny Ryan, MD — Director at Large-Publications: Dr. Ryan currently serves as an ASRM Delegate to the American Medical Association House of Delegates and has been involved in the Society's PRIMED leadership development initiative since its inception. A former Chair of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' Committee on Ethics, Ryan has authored or co-authored more than 60 peer-reviewed manuscripts, reviews and book chapters. She also serves on the editorial boards of Fertility and Sterility and F&S Reports, bringing extensive experience in scientific publishing, medical ethics and research to her new role.
The appointments were announced in conjunction with the 2026 Scientific Congress & Expo in Baltimore, Maryland, which brings together reproductive medicine professionals from around the world to share the latest science, clinical advances and developments shaping the field.
For almost a century, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been the global leader in multidisciplinary reproductive medicine research, ethical practice, and education. ASRM impacts reproductive care and science worldwide by creating funding opportunities for advancing reproduction research and discovery, by providing evidence-based education and public health information, and by advocating for reproductive health care professionals and the patients they serve. With members in more than 100 countries, the Society is headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional operations in Birmingham, AL. www.asrm.org
For media inquiries regarding this press release contact:
Sean Tipton
ASRM Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer
E: stipton@asrm.org
Anna Hovey
Advocacy Engagement Specialist
E: ahovey@asrm.org
J. Benjamin Younger Office of Public Affairs
726 7th St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
Tel: (202) 863-2494
Press Releases
Check out these press releases as well
New Research Highlights Barriers, Disparities, and Emerging Challenges in Fertility Care
View 11 ASRM studies revealing barriers to fertility care, insurance disparities, cancer-related preservation gaps, and challenges from AI and social media.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Honors 2026 Awardees at Scientific Congress & Expo in Baltimore, MD
ASRM honors seven awardees at its 2026 Scientific Congress & Expo in Baltimore, recognizing excellence in reproductive medicine, research, education, leadership and patient care.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Announces New Task Force to Strengthen Gestational Carrier Practices and Protections
ASRM launches a Gestational Carrier Task Force to strengthen ethical practices, protect patients and providers, and preserve access to this essential family-building option.
ASRM Responds to White House Executive Order on Improving Women’s Health
ASRM responds to the White House executive order on women's health, supporting evidence-based research and improved health outcomes for women and girls.
The News from ASRM
Latest News
An indispensable news digest for reproductive scientists, clinicians and allied health professionals. The Latest News posts are available to ASRM members in good standing only.
ASRM Press Releases/Bulletins
ASRM Press Releases and Bulletins are published by ASRM's Office of Public Affairs to inform the press and Society members of important recent developments.
Topic Resources
View more on the topic of access to care
New Research Highlights Barriers, Disparities, and Emerging Challenges in Fertility Care
View 11 ASRM studies revealing barriers to fertility care, insurance disparities, cancer-related preservation gaps, and challenges from AI and social media.
View the Press Release
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Announces New Board Members
ASRM announces six new Board of Directors members, bringing expertise in reproductive medicine, research, clinical practice, scientific publishing and leadership. View the Press Release
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Announces New Task Force to Strengthen Gestational Carrier Practices and Protections
ASRM launches a Gestational Carrier Task Force to strengthen ethical practices, protect patients and providers, and preserve access to this essential family-building option. View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to White House Executive Order on Improving Women’s Health
ASRM responds to the White House executive order on women's health, supporting evidence-based research and improved health outcomes for women and girls.
View the Press Release
New National Study Finds Broad Public Support for IVF Access and Insurance Coverage
New national study finds 74.2% of Americans support IVF access and 64.6% support state-required insurance coverage for fertility treatment. View the Press Release
Staff Spotlight: Meredith Sauls, MA
As Managing Editor of the Fertility and Sterility family of journals, Meredith Sauls, MA, has helped support the expansion of one of the most influential medical journals in reproductive medicine. Read More about Meredith Sauls
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Live from the ESHRE 42nd Annual Meeting (Part 3)
Learn how IVF costs, household income, insurance coverage and affordability affect access to fertility treatment and IVF use worldwide. Listen to the Episode
ASRM Comments on Two Proposed Federal Rules
ASRM comments on two federal proposals affecting fertility benefits, patient protections, scientific peer review, and the future of federally funded medical science. Read ASRM's Comments
ASRM Physician Members Warn State Reporting Bills Could Turn Fertility Care Into a Political Target
ASRM warns state IVF reporting bills could threaten patient privacy, fertility care, and access by replacing medical expertise with political oversight. View the Press Release
Latest Season of ASRM Today Offers a Resource for LGBTQ-Inclusive Reproductive Care
The latest season of ASRM Today focuses on LGBTQ+ family-building, speaking directly to the needs of providers, patients, and the many professionals who support the family-building process. Learn more about the latest season of ASRM Today
IVF in the Military: Expanding Access for Service Members
View ASRM’s June 2026 webinar on military IVF access, fertility coverage advocacy, and expanding care for U.S. service members. View the ASRM Webinar on IVF in the Military
ASRM Responds to Supreme Court Mifepristone Decision
ASRM supports continued access to mifepristone, warning that unnecessary restrictions could delay reproductive healthcare and harm patients. View the Press Release
Journal Club Global (Portuguese): Access to fertility services by transgender and nonbinary persons
ASRM webinar explores transgender and non-binary fertility care, preservation options, gender dysphoria, ethics, and inclusive reproductive healthcare. View the Video
ASRM Responds to Trump Administration’s Announcement Regarding Insurance for Fertility Care
ASRM responds to Trump IVF insurance proposal, urging broader fertility care access and public input on draft coverage rules. View the Press Release
New Research Examines Range of Restorative Reproductive Medicine Practices from Evidence-Based Perspective
ASRM’s Fertility and Sterility series examines restorative reproductive medicine, IVF alternatives, and evidence-based fertility care amid growing policy debate. View the Press Release
ASRM Center for Policy and Leadership Warns Federal Funding Cuts Are Undermining Reproductive Health Infrastructure
Federal funding cuts to NIH, CDC, and FDA threaten reproductive health research, patient safety, and access to care, warns new ASRM policy report. View the Press Release
The U.S. Federal Government and Reproductive Health
The Impact of Federal Funding Cuts on Patients, Providers, and the Field of Reproductive Medicine. View the Advocacy Resource
Group Spotlight: Access to Care SIG
Access to Care SIG brings together clinicians, researchers, advocates, and industry partners to rethink how care is delivered. Learn more about ATC group.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Responds to TrumpRx Announcement, Says IVF Access Requires More Than Lower Drug Prices
ASRM has responded to the latest announcement about TrumpRx and its impact on IVF treatments. View the Press Release
ASRM Inaugural INNOVATE
ASRM INNOVATE spotlighted the energy of innovation in reproductive medicine and how collaboration will shape the future of fertility and reproductive health. Read about INNOVATE
Improving access to care and delivery to marginalized and vulnerable populations: a committee opinion (2025)
ASRM committee opinion on reducing infertility care disparities, outlining barriers and actionable strategies to improve equitable access. View the opinion
Preparing Experts in Reproductive Medicine to Engage Decisionmakers
ASRM’s PRIMED program trains reproductive health experts to advocate for evidence-based policy, empowering professionals to engage lawmakers and advance care access. ASRM PRIMED Program continues mission
Reproductive Medicine in the Era of Social Media: Pearls and Pitfalls
For couples struggling to conceive, social media has become a lifeline, a source of information, inspiration, and community. View the Latest Tech Talk post
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Oversight: Lessons for the United States from Abroad
A comprehensive analysis of global Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) regulations, comparing policies, accessibility, and ethical considerations in various countries. View the advocacy resource
ASRM Announces FY25 Patient Advocacy Grant Awardees
Congratulations to the Newest Grant Recipients! View more information about the patient advocacy grant
Opposition Rebuttal
ASRM's "Opposition Rebuttal" fact sheet counters common arguments against assisted reproductive technologies, offering evidence-based support for ART practices. View the advocacy points
Oversight of IVF in the US
In the US, medical care is regulated by a complex and comprehensive network of federal and state regulations and professional oversight. View the advocacy resource
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
It takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resource
Ethical considerations for telemedical delivery of fertility care: an Ethics Committee opinion (2024)
Telemedicine has the potential to increase access to and decrease the cost of care. View the Committee Opinion
Cross-border reproductive care: an Ethics Committee opinion (2022)
Cross-border reproductive care is a growing worldwide phenomenon, raising questions about why assisted reproductive technology patients travel for care. View the Ethics Committee Document
Reproductive and infertility care in times of public health crises: an Ethics Committee opinion (2022)
Public health crises often require a framework shift in which patient autonomy is balanced with the need to safeguard the health of the community. View the Committee opinion
Access to fertility treatment irrespective of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity: an Ethics Committee opinion (2021)
Individuals and couples should have access to fertility services irrespective of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. View the Committee Opinion
Disparities in access to effective treatment for infertility in the United States: an Ethics Committee opinion (2021)
In the United States, economic, racial, ethnic, geographic, and other disparities prevent access to fertility treatment and affect treatment outcomes. View the Committee Opinion
Exploring Access to Care for Marginalized Communities Course
Enhance your skills and contribute to reducing healthcare disparities for marginalized communities. Learn more about the Exploring Access to Care for Marginalized Communities Course
Access to Care Special Interest Group (ATCSIG)
The Access To Care Special Interest Group's purpose is to foster the growth of knowledge among the ASRM membership and the medical community regarding the unmet needs that exist today in access to reproductive care Learn more about the Special Interest Group
Patient Advocacy Grant
The ASRM Patient Advocacy Grants Program awards funds to patient advocacy organizations to support advocacy efforts and educational programs for patients. View more information about the patient advocacy grantTopic Resources
View more on the topic of research
New Research Highlights Barriers, Disparities, and Emerging Challenges in Fertility Care
View 11 ASRM studies revealing barriers to fertility care, insurance disparities, cancer-related preservation gaps, and challenges from AI and social media.
View the Press Release
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Honors 2026 Awardees at Scientific Congress & Expo in Baltimore, MD
ASRM honors seven awardees at its 2026 Scientific Congress & Expo in Baltimore, recognizing excellence in reproductive medicine, research, education, leadership and patient care.
View the Press Release
October 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
ASRM Distinguished Researcher Award
This award honors an ASRM member with major reproductive science research contributions over the past decade and who has had a lasting impact on future scholars. View the Award Information
Ira And Ester Rosenwaks New Investigator Award
This award recognizes a member of ASRM who has made outstanding contributions to clinical or basic research in reproductive sciences published within 10 years after receiving the doctoral degree or completing residency training. View the Award Information
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Live from the ESHRE 42nd Annual Meeting (Part 3)
Learn how IVF costs, household income, insurance coverage and affordability affect access to fertility treatment and IVF use worldwide. Listen to the Episode
August 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Live from the ESHRE 42nd Annual Meeting (Part 2)
Explore IVF success trends, frozen embryo transfer protocols, mosaic embryo outcomes, PCOS treatment, and evidence-based advances in reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
Journal Club Global: The number of autologous, vitrified mature oocytes needed to obtain three euploid blastocysts increases with age
Experts discuss egg freezing research, age-specific fertility outcomes, and how many eggs patients should freeze to improve future live birth chances. View the Video
ASRM Research Institute Announces Recipients of 2026 Research Award Programs
ASRM Research Institute names 24 recipients of its 2026 research awards, funding innovative studies to advance fertility medicine and reproductive health. View the Press Release
July 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
ASRM Comments on Two Proposed Federal Rules
ASRM comments on two federal proposals affecting fertility benefits, patient protections, scientific peer review, and the future of federally funded medical science. Read ASRM's Comments
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Unplugged: May 2026
Fertility and Sterility Unplugged podcast reviews global reproductive medicine research, journal highlights, author discussions, and ASRM updatescoverage insights Listen to the Episode
June 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
May 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
New Research Examines Range of Restorative Reproductive Medicine Practices from Evidence-Based Perspective
ASRM’s Fertility and Sterility series examines restorative reproductive medicine, IVF alternatives, and evidence-based fertility care amid growing policy debate. View the Press Release
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Roundtable: Influencing Ovarian Aging
Explore ovarian aging in reproductive medicine—experts discuss IVF research, emerging treatments, mTOR pathways, and why “ovarian rejuvenation” remains unproven. Listen to the Episode
Ethical considerations of in vitro gametogenesis: an Ethics Committee opinion ASRM (2026)
In vitro gametogenesis (IVG) represents a potentially transformative yet currently experimental frontier in reproductive science. View the Committee Opinion
Fertility and Sterility On Air - Unplugged: March 2026
Fertility podcast explores IVF research, PRP risks, and recurrent pregnancy loss, highlighting evidence gaps, patient safety, and emerging reproductive medicine trends. Listen to the Episode
March 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
Fertility and Sterility On Air - TOC: March 2026
Explore the March 2026 Fertility and Sterility On Air episode covering exercise during FET cycles, metabolic health, IVF triggers, PGT insights, and ectopic pregnancy research. Listen to the Episode
ASRM President-Elect Dr. Amy Sparks Receives Michigan State University Outstanding Alumni Award
ASRM has proudly announced President-Elect Dr. Amy Sparks, Ph.D., as the winner of the 2026 Outstanding Alumni Award from the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR).
View the Press Release
February 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
"Fertility and Sterility On Air - Unplugged: December 2025
Listen to Fertility & Sterility On Air – Unplugged December 2025 for expert reproductive medicine discussions, journal highlights, clinical insights, and fertility research updates. Listen to the Episode
Fertility and Sterility On Air - TOC: January 2026
Listen to Fertility and Sterility On Air—the January 2026 podcast from ASRM—highlighting new fertility research, IVF studies, and expert insights shaping reproductive care. Listen to the Episode
January 2026: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
Journal Club Global at Turkish Society of Reproductive Medicine Meeting
Fertility & Sterility is proud to once again partner with the Turkish Society of Reproductive Medicine. The panel will discuss the evidence behind an association between endometrial thickness and chance of live birth.
View the Video
Journal Club Global: Emulated Trials - A New Research Method With Insights Into Fertility Vitamin Supplements
Explore how emulated trials reveal the impact of vitamin D on fertility, featuring ASRM experts and real-world research insights from the FAST trial. View the Video
Fertility Experts Publish New Research Highlighting Declining Fertility Rate, Causes and Global Impacts
Falling fertility rates could have detrimental impacts on global population, economic growth.View the Press Release
December 2025: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
Catherine Racowsky, PhD, Embryology Education Scholarship Announced at ASRM Gala
Catherine Racowsky, PhD was elated to learn that her friends, family, and colleagues had planned a surprise in her honor: a new scholarship in her name. Learn More About the Scholarship Announcement
November 2025: What's New from the Fertility and Sterility Family of Journals
Here’s a peek at this month’s issues from our family of journals! As an ASRM Member, you can access all of our journals. Read More about the newest articles
ASRM Inaugural INNOVATE
ASRM INNOVATE spotlighted the energy of innovation in reproductive medicine and how collaboration will shape the future of fertility and reproductive health. Read about INNOVATE
ASRM 2025 Scientific Congress & Expo is Underway in San Antonio, TX
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is currently hosting the 2025 Scientific Congress & Expo in San Antonio, Texas, from October 25 - 29, 2025. View the Press Release
Fertility and Sterility: Celebrating 75 Years
For three-quarters of a century, this flagship journal has been at the heart of reproductive medicine, shaping the field and driving the discoveries that change lives. Fertilty and Sterility turns 75!
How to be the Best Abstract Reviewer
Learn how to review abstracts effectively with tips on novelty, relevance, quality, conclusions, rubrics, and scoring from Dr. Chevis Shannon. View the ASRMed Talk Video
How to Write a Well Crafted Abstract
Learn how to write a winning abstract. Follow instructions, highlight key findings, avoid jargon, and keep your message clear and concise. View the ASRMed Talk Video
Interpretation of clinical trial results: a committee opinion (2020)
Expert guidance from ASRM to evaluate clinical trial results—criteria for validity, importance, and relevance to improve evidence‑based reproductive care. View the Committee Opinion
