Dear Members of the International Society of Protistologists,
I am pleased to address you and announce recent news regarding changes and actions of the ISOP Executive Committee.
We sincerely thank everyone who participated in the secret ballot, where 93% of voters supported the approval of the new By-Laws. The updated By-Laws are now available on our website.
There have been several leadership changes within the Society. Sina Adl has replaced Anna Karnkowska as the acting President, serving in this role until June 2025. Anna continues on the Executive Committee as the Past President. Avelina Espinosa has started her three-year term as the Vice President.
After 12 years of dedicated service as Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, Roberto Docampo has stepped down. We thank Roberto for his leadership and service during his tenure. Joel Dacks has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief, effective July 1, 2024. You can read more about Joel and his vision for the Journal on our website and in the newsletter.
We also extend our thanks to Virginia Edgcomb, who became the new Treasurer of the Society. Ginny, a former President and Vice President of ISOP, has worked tirelessly for the Society, and we are grateful for her ongoing commitment.
The changes to our By-Laws have introduced new membership types and privileges. As a result, the Executive Committee has proposed a new due schedule for 2026, which is explained in the Membership Secretary’s letter. Membership will have the opportunity to discuss and vote on the due schedule for 2026 and beyond at the upcoming Business Meeting in June 2025.
Finally, I would like to inform you that the Executive Committee has approved a $50,000 loan to the ICOP 2025 Organizing Committee, and made key appointments to various positions. We are confident these changes will continue to strengthen our Society’s mission. The current list of Executive Committee members is available here.
Thank you for your ongoing support of ISOP.
Warm regards,
Tomáš Pánek
Executive Secretary
