Letter from the President and CEO February 2025

Dear Reader,

Last week, in the wake of the unusual snowstorm we experienced in Houston, the staff of the Institute came together in a thoughtful exercise to envision how the seeds we have planted this winter will bloom over the coming months. These are the seeds of the Conference on Medicine and Religion, the Collective Soul Symposium, our Heroic Self-Care Retreats, our 70th Anniversary Celebration, and more. Through the imagery of snowflakes swirling in a snow globe, we identified aspirations that reflect our collective hopes and values—rooted in inspiration, belonging, and peace.

Together, we imagined that these programs will not only inspire action and joy but also foster a profound sense of belonging and togetherness. We spoke of cultivating wholeness, working with grace and gentleness, and ensuring that our programs reflect quality and accessibility. We named the aspiration to deepen connections among volunteers, expand our reach in underserved communities, and promote inclusivity across all health professions.

With a foundation of 70 years to guide us, we reaffirmed our commitment to meaningful service, unconditional giving, and allowing our shared purpose to bloom in ways that bring hope, joy, and spiritual connection to all we touch. Like snow, the human spirit surrounds us, covers everything, and nourishes us.

What seeds are you planting that will bloom in the coming months? What is your vision for thriving?

Warmly,
Stuart

Stuart C. Nelson
President & CEO