Erica Martin Lecture

2025 GUEST SPEAKER:

Jeannette Lin, MD

Associate Professor of Medicine

ACHD Fellowship Program Director

UCLA School of Medicine

October 21, 2025

Lunch provided

PRIOR GUEST SPEAKERS

The following speakers have presented at the annual Erica Martin Lecture:

2025 Abigail May Khan, MD, MSCE

2024 S. Kimara March, MD, FACC FSCAI; Rajat Kalra, MBCHB, MS; Guru Hiremath, MD, FSCAI; Henri Roukoz, MD

2023 Anitha John, MD, PhD

2022 Sameh Said, MD

2021 Wendy Book, MD

2019 Sarah Kreykes, MS, CGC

2018 Audrey Marshall, MD MPH

2017 Michael Earing, MD

2016 Naser Ammash, MD

2015 Karen Stout, MD, FACC

2014 Heidi Connolly, MD

2013 Gary Webb, MD, FACC

NEW for 2025!
Call for Abstracts: ACHD Fellows – Erica Martin Lecture

The University of Minnesota invites applicants to submit abstracts for presentation as part of the annual Erica Martin Lecture, honoring the life and legacy of Erica Martin and advancing excellence in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) care.

We welcome submissions in the following categories:

Original research
Quality improvement initiatives
Clinical program innovations
Case reports
Creative proposals to improve ACHD systems of care

Applicant Eligibility (Any of the following):

Current ACHD Fellow in an ACGME-accredited ACHD fellowship
Current Pediatric Cardiology fellow with intention to pursue ACHD training and Board Certification
Current Adult Cardiology fellow with intention to pursue ACHD training and Board Certification
Current Resident in internal medicine or pediatrics with intention to pursue ACHD training and Board Certification

The top two abstracts will be selected for in-person presentation during the Erica Martin Lecture at the University of Minnesota.

This is a unique opportunity to showcase fellow- or resident-led work and contribute to the national conversation on ACHD care.

Quick Info and Links

Deadline: 9/30/25

Submit Your Abstract

Questions? Contact Dr. M. Abigail Simmons
via email: simmo775@umn.edu

Erica Martin

Erica Martin was born with complex heterotaxy-asplenia syndrome. She had multiple congenital cardiac abnormalities including a dextrocardia, unbalanced AV canal with a single left ventricle, malposed great arteries and pulmonary stenosis. During childhood, she underwent a series of surgeries to palliate her congenital cardiac condition.

Despite facing numerous surgeries throughout her life, Erica exemplified remarkable strength, resilience, and an enduring spirit. She was known for her vibrant personality, her kindness, and her unwavering friendliness, traits that deeply touched all those who were privileged to know her. Her life, though filled with medical challenges, was a testament to the power of positivity.

As an adult living with a congenital heart condition, she became one of the first patients of the University of Minnesota's Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program, where she was beloved member of the ACHD community at the University of Minnesota.

Tragically, Erica passed away at the age of 31. In her memory, her parents, Tim and Linda Martin, along with other family members and friends, established an endowment to honor her life and legacy. The endowment supports ongoing education and research in the field of Adult Congenital Heart Disease, ensuring that Erica’s legacy continues to inspire and advance the care of ACHD patients for generations to come.

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