Fertility in the news teaser

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

Fertility in the News

Fertility in the news teaser

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. 
Fertility in the news teaser

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. 

Resources For You

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.
Advocacy Resources teaser

Advocacy Resources

ASRM has prepared resources to help you explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.

View the Resouces
Patient FAQs teaser

Frequently Asked Questions

ASRM's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) provides answers to common questions about reproductive health. 

Know the FAQs
Couple holding their baby

Patient Journeys

ASRM has resources and publications to help you through each stage of your journey.

Browse the Journeys
RF_Insurance Information

State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws

One way that ASRM works to improve access to fertility care is by advocating for insurance coverage for reproductive medicine care. All patients should have access to the care they need. 

See the Insurance Law Breakdown
Patient Factsheet Teaser

Fact Sheets and Infographics

ASRM produces a series of fact sheets and booklets on various topics related to infertility, reproductive health, and family planning. The fact sheets and booklets are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.

Read our Fact Sheets
RF_Reproductive Rights

Reproductive Rights and You

The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. We need your help!

Fight for Reproductive Rights
Couple browse information on reproductive care

Reproductive Topics

Find all the resources on a specific topic compiled onto a single page. 

View all topics
SART Fertility Experts podcast logo

SART Fertility Experts Podcast

An educational project of ASRM's affiliated society, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF.

Listen to an Episode
Couple review Reproductive Facts patient videos for fertility information

Patient Education Videos

ASRM and its affiliated society SART have made several videos to explain the sometimes difficult topics related to reproductive medicine.

View the Videos
Young woman researches reproductive health terminology  on ReproductiveFacts.org

Terms and Definitions

Find explanations for the meaning behind the doctor-speak you hear when trying to research reproductive medicine topics. ASRM has defined the most popular terms in easy to understand language.

Know your Medical Terms
Young family after sharing their patient story about reproductive care

Patient Stories

Read real-life stories from patients who have faced reproductive medicine challenges and come out stronger on the other side.

View Stories of Inspiration and Hope
Fertility in the news teaser

Fertility in the News

ASRM Press Releases and Bulletins are published by ASRM's Office of Public Affairs to inform the world about important happenings in reproductive medicine and at ASRM.

Read About Fertility in the News

Find a Health Professional

Connect with reproductive medicine experts who will guide you through your unique journey. Our search tool allows personalized matches based on location, specialization, and expertise. Take control of your reproductive health with compassionate providers, innovative treatments, and unwavering support.
Search for an Expert
Healthcare professional eager to help a patient

Access to Care

PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

American Society for Reproductive Medicine 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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
Advocacy Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Public Policy

Exploration of ART policy challenges, including Dobbs decision impacts, IVF threats, and advocacy strategies, highlighting bipartisan support and voter influence. Listen to the Episode
Advocacy Icon

Advocacy in Action

Join the ASRM Advocacy in Action campaign by making a tax-deductible charitable gift Be part of Advocacy in Action
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Reproductive Access

Dr. Cristin Slater and Betsy Campbell from RESOLVE  discuss: barriers to infertility care; opportunities to get infertility care; and recent trends. Listen to the Episode
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - Access To Care

Learn how a variety of factors such as geography, race, and the availability of comprehensive infertility mandates affect access to effective infertility treatment.  Listen to the Episode
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - Single Motherhood

We explore personal experiences that led to the creation of "Single Mothers by Choice" as well as considerations faced by those pursing single motherhood. Listen to the Episode
Infographic Icon

Access to Care Infographics

ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of Access to Care better. View the Infographics
Advocacy Icon

It takes more than one

Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resource
Advocacy Icon

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
Advocacy Icon

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

Research

PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - Behind the Breakthroughs: Understanding Fertility Research

SART Fertility Experts explores reproductive research, evidence-based fertility care, IVF advances, clinical trials, peer review, and future infertility treatments. Listen to the Episode
PR Bulletin Icon

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
PR Bulletin Icon

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
Patient Ed Icon

Stem cell research

Embryonic stem cells are special cells found in very early stage embryos (fertilized eggs). View the fact sheet
Patient Ed Icon

Understanding clinical studies

Clinical trials are research studies that test how safe and effective new drugs, treatments, and devices are. View the fact sheet
Podcast Icon

SART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?

These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode