Kao delivers presidential speech for Surgical Infection Society

Dr. Lillian Kaw speaks at a podium during the SIS annual conference presentation, gesturing with both hands while addressing the audience.

A woman and man pose together at a conference reception area, both dressed in business attire and smiling for the camera.

Lillian Kao, MD, MBA, MS, professor in the Department of Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston and chief of the Division of Acute Care Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, presented the 2026 Presidential Speech at the Surgical Infection Society annual meeting May 5 in Coronado, California.

Kao was elected president of the Surgical Infection Society prior to the meeting, earning her the honor of delivering the address. Kao is an accomplished surgeon who applies evidence-based research to improve outcomes in acute care patients. Under her presidency, the society will continue to champion the translation of cutting-edge science into everyday surgical practice to improve outcomes from surgical infections.

The Surgical Infection Society is a global society focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating infections related to surgery. It brings together surgeons, infectious disease experts, researchers, and allied health professionals to share knowledge and best practices.