SSO Announces CEO Transition

The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) announces the departure of Chief Executive Officer Anna Polyak, RN, JD, who has served in this role since 2022. During her tenure, Anna provided dedicated leadership and helped strengthen the Society through the implementation of a new strategic plan and the launch of several initiatives that have delivered meaningful value to SSO members. She will be returning to her nursing roots as CEO of a major nursing association.

To ensure continuity and maintain the strong momentum of the past three and a half years, the SSO Board of Directors has appointed Patti Stella, CAE, CHCP, as Interim Chief Executive Officer. Patti joined SSO in 2012 as Assistant Director of CME and Educational Products and was promoted to Director of Education in 2016. Over the past 13 years, she has played a vital role in shaping and expanding SSO’s educational offerings, strengthening the Society’s learning infrastructure, and advancing SSO’s mission to deliver impactful, high-quality education to surgical oncologists worldwide.

Patti has contributed across nearly every area of the organization and has built strong, trusted relationships with members, volunteers, and staff. Her deep understanding of SSO’s programs and culture uniquely positions her to guide the Society through this transition. The Board welcomes her leadership and is confident in her ability to continue moving the Society forward.

The Board of Directors extends its sincere gratitude to Anna for her service and contributions to SSO and wishes her every success in her next chapter.