During the Annual Business meeting at VAM 2026, the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) announced it elected William Shutze, MD, as the incoming vice president and Bernadette Aulivola, MD, as the new treasurer.
As vice president, Shutze will help coordinate the activities of SVS councils and committees. His term as vice president will be followed by terms as president-elect and president, ensuring continuity of leadership.
“I am honored by the confidence of SVS members and look forward to working collaboratively to strengthen our specialty, support our members and advance exceptional patient care,” said Shutze.
Shutze, a board-certified vascular surgeon, is the co-founder of Texas Vascular Associates, a former fellowship program director at Baylor University Medical Center and author of more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. He has also spearheaded the SVS’ public awareness campaign Highway to Health since October 2024.
As treasurer, Aulivola will serve a two-year term. Board-certified in surgery and vascular surgery, she is a professor of surgery at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and director of the Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy at Loyola University Health System.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve SVS in this important leadership role,” said Aulivola. “As Treasurer, I look forward to supporting the Society’s long-term success through thoughtful stewardship and strategic investment.”
During the meeting, the SVS also recognized several leadership transitions. Linda Harris, MD, DFSVS, assumes the role of president, succeeding Keith Calligaro, MD, DFSVS, who transitions to immediate past president. Andres Schanzer MD, DFSVS, formerly vice president, steps into the role of president-elect.
“The strength of SVS lies in its dedicated volunteer leaders and their commitment to advancing vascular health,” said Harris. “We congratulate Dr. Shutze and Dr. Aulivola on their election and look forward to their contributions as SVS continues to support vascular surgeons, elevate the specialty and advance care for patients with vascular disease.”
