A Message from David Peter, MNSAM President
February 12, 2026
Dear Colleagues,
In these challenging times for our state, our nation, and the world, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for each of you and your continued commitment to our shared purpose—providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those struggling with addiction.
I am proud of Minnesotans for standing together peacefully and advocating for justice and dignity. Whatever our personal politics, we cannot ignore the reality that fear and intimidation stemming from recent ICE activity in Minneapolis has kept many of our patients from receiving the care they desperately need.
I was fortunate to attend and speak with legislators following the press conference a few weeks ago, and it was heartening to see several MNSAM members there as well. Today’s news that Operation Metro Surge will end brings some solace, though uncertainty and residual trauma remain.
Passing by Alex Pretti’s memorial at the VA reminds me daily of the profound impact of these events. These tragedies were avoidable and unconscionable, yet it has been remarkable to witness how communities have come together in response.
We all need a break, though our calling rarely affords us that luxury. Please take time for yourselves and reach out if you need support. We will not hold our usual quarterly meeting—I know everyone has plenty on their plates—but if there’s interest in an informal social gathering, I’m happy to host (though I haven’t told my spouse yet!).
I look forward to seeing many of you at our annual conference in April, where I’ll arrange a lunch or other get-together. Our next quarterly meeting will be in May, featuring fellows’ highlights from the conference and a yearly literature review.
It’s also MNSAM election season. My tenure as president concludes in April, and Ashwin George will assume the role. We will elect a president-elect, secretary, and treasurer — each for two-year terms. Nominations are now open and will close on March 4. We’ll confirm nominees’ interest before voting takes place in April. The results will be announced at our May meeting.
Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and compassion. Together, we continue to make a difference.
Warm regards,
David Peter
President, Minnesota Society of Addiction Medicine
In these challenging times for our state, our nation, and the world, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude for each of you and your continued commitment to our shared purpose—providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those struggling with addiction.
I am proud of Minnesotans for standing together peacefully and advocating for justice and dignity. Whatever our personal politics, we cannot ignore the reality that fear and intimidation stemming from recent ICE activity in Minneapolis has kept many of our patients from receiving the care they desperately need.
I was fortunate to attend and speak with legislators following the press conference a few weeks ago, and it was heartening to see several MNSAM members there as well. Today’s news that Operation Metro Surge will end brings some solace, though uncertainty and residual trauma remain.
Passing by Alex Pretti’s memorial at the VA reminds me daily of the profound impact of these events. These tragedies were avoidable and unconscionable, yet it has been remarkable to witness how communities have come together in response.
We all need a break, though our calling rarely affords us that luxury. Please take time for yourselves and reach out if you need support. We will not hold our usual quarterly meeting—I know everyone has plenty on their plates—but if there’s interest in an informal social gathering, I’m happy to host (though I haven’t told my spouse yet!).
I look forward to seeing many of you at our annual conference in April, where I’ll arrange a lunch or other get-together. Our next quarterly meeting will be in May, featuring fellows’ highlights from the conference and a yearly literature review.
It’s also MNSAM election season. My tenure as president concludes in April, and Ashwin George will assume the role. We will elect a president-elect, secretary, and treasurer — each for two-year terms. Nominations are now open and will close on March 4. We’ll confirm nominees’ interest before voting takes place in April. The results will be announced at our May meeting.
Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and compassion. Together, we continue to make a difference.
Warm regards,
David Peter
President, Minnesota Society of Addiction Medicine