By Ruth Akers, RN, BSN, MS, MAACVPR
Ringing in the new year is a beloved tradition observed by revelers around the world. Partying aside, it’s a symbolic moment to wipe the slate clean, get a fresh start, and re-commit to our future selves. As a way to capture the possibilities and potential of the months to come, I sometimes like to reference the Chinese Lunar New Year. As we welcome 2026, it is time to celebrate the Year of the Horse.
In 2025, I traveled to West Virginia to visit my best friend and had the opportunity to attend her granddaughter’s polo match. It was my first time watching the sport; and while I was intrigued by the game itself, I found myself most captivated by the horses. Watching them gallop and weave across the field, heads held high and tails perfectly braided, was exhilarating. Their power, speed, and grace were unmistakable. With subtle guidance from their riders, they sprinted forward, slowed down, pivoted, regrouped, all with a shared purpose: to get to the ball and drive it forward.
In Chinese culture, the horse is associated with fire and is described as energetic, independent, ambitious, charismatic, loyal, and enthusiastic. Horses are natural leaders, known for their strength and perseverance, and they symbolize heroes and talent. As I read these descriptions, I immediately thought of the many individuals I have met throughout my years with AACVPR.
That connection became even clearer as I watched the first graduating class of the LEAD Academy during our 2025 Annual Meeting. Those 50 graduates embody the spirit of the horse. They represent not only leadership but also the future success of our cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation profession and, indeed, the future of AACVPR itself.
This same energy was evident as we received an impressive number of applications for open positions on the association’s Board of Directors. Seeing so many passionate and capable members step forward was truly exciting and a powerful reminder of the fire that continues to fuel our organization.
As you know, AACVPR recently celebrated a major milestone: 40 years of advancing our field. As we begin our 41st year, there is still important work ahead. We need “workhorses” like you — members with energy, dedication, and vision — to keep our organization moving forward with strength and purpose. In other words, to get the ball and drive it forward.
AACVPR offers many opportunities to learn, grow, and lead. One of the best ways to get involved is by joining a committee. If you have never served on one before, I encourage you to take that step. Your talents, enthusiasm, and perspective are essential as we continue to build momentum together.
The new year is also a time for reflection and resolutions. New Year’s resolutions are often focused on personal self-improvement, such as losing weight, exercising more, or practicing better self-care; but this year, I encourage each of you to also include a professional goal that supports and strengthens our association.
I hope AACVPR is part of your aspirations for the year ahead. Consider one, or more, of the following:
- Join an AACVPR committee
- Obtain your certification in cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation
- Write an article for News & Views
- Attend our annual Day on the Hill
- Apply for fellowship
- Submit an application for the LEAD Academy
- And, of course, mark your calendar for the 41st AACVPR Annual Meeting this September
So, are you that horse galloping confidently toward success? I believe you are.
And there is undeniable beauty in that picture.
Ruth Akers is AACVPR Board Secretary and Editor of News & Views.