Where Perfusion Meets Purpose: Reflections from the 2025 Sanibel Symposium
The 14th annual Sanibel Symposium once again brought together the brightest minds in cardiac and perfusion care for an unforgettable week of learning, networking, and innovation. Held May 7–10, 2025, at the breathtaking Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in Bonita Springs, Florida, the event blended academic excellence with a refreshing sense of camaraderie. We caught up with two key team members, Mia Bennett and Bridgett Keeley, to hear about their experiences behind the scenes and their hopes for next year.
Behind the Scenes with the Sanibel Team
As part of the dedicated team that makes the Sanibel Symposium run seamlessly, Mia Bennett and Bridgett Keeley each played a unique role in shaping the experience – both on-site and online. Their behind-the-scenes efforts ensured attendees enjoyed a conference that was as engaging as it was educational.
For Mia, the Sanibel Symposium was all about balancing precision with play. In her role as liaison to the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion, she oversaw the CEU approval process – ensuring the agenda met all required accreditation standards. At the same time, she brought an infectious energy to the exhibit hall as part of the Gaming & Prizes Committee. Whether it was keeping the cotton candy machine spinning, running the Plinko board, or managing the inflatable dome, Mia helped create a space where attendees could relax, recharge, and connect between sessions.
What surprised her most? The number of returning attendees who remembered her from last year and made a point to visit the booth to hang out. “It definitely made me smile to know that they enjoyed our booth last year and this year,” she shared. That sense of familiarity and community underscored one of her favorite aspects of the Symposium: it felt like a reunion of like-minded professionals who, despite coming from 28 different countries, felt like family.
Running the Show – On Stage and Online
Bridgett took on the role of assistant moderator this year, placing her right at the heart of the action. She was responsible for keeping sessions on time, managing virtual Q&As, and working alongside student interns to support the hybrid format – one of Sanibel’s hallmark features as the first and only hybrid perfusion conference of its kind.
In addition to coordinating logistics, Bridgett valued the chance to work closely with both the Sanibel team and the speakers. The behind-the-scenes collaboration, she said, was one of the most rewarding parts of her experience. Not only did she enjoy engaging with team members like Marco Polizzi, Carla Maul, and Richard Issit, but she also appreciated the opportunity to interact with speakers on a deeper level than the average attendee. Being part of the moderator team gave her a unique vantage point – one that fostered connection, insight, and a greater appreciation for the expertise shared throughout the event.
Innovative Content and Global Reach
This year’s educational sessions left a lasting impression on both Mia and Bridgett. Mia found herself especially drawn to the student presentations, which explored unexpected and thought-provoking topics like the science behind scuba diving and how oxygen is produced in the deep sea. She thoroughly enjoyed their presentations, noting how refreshing it was to hear such original content.
Bridgett was equally impressed by the thoughtfully curated agenda. Each session contributed to a broader, global perspective on the perfusion field, reinforcing the Sanibel Symposium’s commitment to advancing the profession on an international scale.
The hybrid format – now a defining feature of the Symposium – continued to prove its value. While in-person attendance occasionally dipped after breaks, virtual participation remained steady. Bridgett kept speakers motivated by reminding them that there were 400 people watching online, ensuring energy stayed high and presentations stayed on schedule no matter the room size.
What’s Next: All Eyes on Year 15 of the Sanibel Symposium
With the 15th Sanibel Symposium just around the corner, excitement is already building. Mia is eager to help plan what promises to be the biggest event yet. “You have to go all out for the 15th,” she said. Bridgett, too, is looking forward to another chance to connect with friends and colleagues in a setting that blends meaningful work with unforgettable moments.
Sanibel Symposium’s Lasting Impact
What sets the Sanibel Symposium apart isn’t just the caliber of research or the international roster of presenters – it’s the energy. The Symposium blends academic excellence with community and joy, reminding everyone why they entered this field in the first place. For those who were there – whether in person or tuning in from across the world – the 14th Sanibel Symposium wasn’t just another conference. It was a shared experience that inspired, educated, and uplifted all.
And next year? It’ll be even better.
Mark your calendars now for the 15th Sanibel Symposium, returning to the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in beautiful Bonita Springs, Florida, from May 6–9, 2026. Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, you won’t want to miss this milestone year of connection, innovation, and inspiration in perfusion.
More details to come—keep an eye on Perfusion.com for updates!
