Dear medical writers,

Having embarked upon my year-long journey as president of EMWA, this is my first opportunity to update the members about the achievements, plans, and aspirations of the outgoing and new Executive Committee (EC).

The Budapest Conference was, as I am sure all attendees will agree, a huge success. The venue was stunning, although the weather couldn't quite match the view. I learned about flocking drones and deconstructed goulash during the Welcoming Presentations and was fortunate enough to attend the full-day symposium on ‘Transparency of clinical data – where does medical writing fit in?’ The packed auditorium was treated to fascinating presentations and interactive discussions from a panel of international experts and speakers. The educational committee delivered a comprehensive scientific programme including over 50 workshops and seven new topics – as usual, feedback from the workshops has been very good confirming that EMWA delivers high-quality training and great value for money.

At the Annual Meeting, I was able to thank Andrea Rossi, Alistair Reeves, and Jo Whelan who were retiring from the EC as President, Conference Director, and Educational Officer, respectively, and welcome Sam Hamilton, Slavka Baronicova, and Barbara Grossman. Our first EC meeting was lively and informative. In addition to receiving reassuring financial, journal, PR, and educational updates, it was gratifying to hear that the newly launched website is being so well received and that we are on target with future conference organisation. New initiatives for the coming year include publication of the 3-year EMWA strategy, introduction of expert seminars and E-learning, and expansion of the recently introduced webinar programme.

While we are between conferences, I would like to remind you all about the Geoff Hall Scholarships, which have recently been launched for 2014. Please see our website for the title of this year's essay and details on how to apply. This is a fantastic opportunity for new writers, as the successful applicants will benefit from 2 years of free membership and free conference registration. I would also like to encourage members to get involved with our association and to contact me or any of the EC if you would like to discuss opportunities or suggestions.

Our autumn conference this year will be in Florence – a fantastic opportunity to combine a beautiful and cultural setting with education, networking, and fun. We might even get some winter sun!! I look forward to seeing many of you there. In the meantime, enjoy your summer.

Best wishes,

Julia Donnelly