Who We Are
Who We Are
The Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) is a leading non-profit, non-political, medical, educational, and humanitarian organization that represents thousands of healthcare professionals across the United States and around the world. Established in 1998 by Syrian-American physicians, SAMS has grown into a powerful network of professionals committed to delivering medical education, humanitarian aid, and community engagement.
Our Story:
SAMS is proud to be at the forefront of global medical relief efforts and professional medical development. Through annual conferences, medical missions, global partnerships, and a wide range of educational and service initiatives, SAMS creates a platform for collaboration, training, and impact.
Today, SAMS includes over 1,500 grassroots members and 13 active chapters across the United States, each contributing to a shared vision of supporting dignified, high-quality care and advancing medical education.
Our Mission:
To build and foster a global network of Syrian-American and allied medical professionals, providing them with the tools, education, and opportunities they need to serve patients in need, develop professionally, and connect with their community.
Our Vision:
A world where every healthcare professional is empowered to serve, educate, and lead with integrity and compassion—bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.
Our Objectives
- Support continuing medical education and promote lifelong learning.
- Foster professional relationships between SAMS members and institutions in North America, Syria, and beyond.
- Provide training and academic opportunities for medical students and professionals globally.
Humanitarian
- Deliver emergency and routine medical care through missions, clinics, and hospitals in crisis-affected areas.
- Supply essential medicines, equipment, and support for health institutions in Syria and neighboring regions.
- Advance the humanitarian mission of SAMS through leadership, advocacy, and global collaboration.
Cultural & Community Engagement
- Celebrate the shared Syrian heritage among members.
- Organize events that strengthen community bonds and promote collective purpose.
1,506
Total Members
266,024,223
Active Chapters
22,397
CME Hours Delivered
2,426
Volunteers
Recognized
SAMS Leadership
President (2025–2027)
Dr. Aref Rifai
A distinguished ophthalmologist and SAMS member since 2007, Dr. Rifai has served in multiple leadership roles, including Chair of the Jordan Committee, Treasurer, and now President (2025–2027). Based in Florida, he is the owner and principal surgeon at the Retina Center of Pensacola.
Vice President (2025)
Dr. Abdulghani Sankari, Chair
A nephrology and transplant specialist based in West Virginia. Dr. Zanabli is a SAMS leader since 2005 and was the founding Chairman of the SAMS Foundation. In 2025, he was re-elected to serve as Vice President of the Society Board.
Former president
Dr. Mufaddal Hamadeh
N/A
Meet Our Board Members (2025–2027)
Dr. Ammar Sukari
Oncology professor and Division Chief at Karmanos Cancer Institute. A SAMS member since 2010, he helped launch the Michigan chapter and now contributes as a newly elected Board member.
Dr. Kamal Al Fakiani
Orthodontist, educator, and humanitarian. Founder of Clear Smile Orthodontics and organizer of the 8th National SAMS Conference. Elected to the Board in 2025.
Dr. Muhammad Alsayid
Gastroenterologist and medical educator. Chair of the Education Committee, Board Member of SAMS Institute, and Program Director of the Gastroenterology Fellowship at Idlib Hospital. A committed humanitarian and SAMS leader since 2010.
Dr. Tarek Jazaerly
Anatomic and clinical pathologist at SwedishAmerican Hospital and Director at the Carbone Cancer Center. Chair of the Oncology Committee and Program Director of the SAMS Pathology Residency Program.
SAMS Board Committees
Bylaws Committee
Dr. Abdulghani Sankari - Chair
Membership Committee
Dr.Anas Alomar - Chair
Scholarship & Education Committee
Dr.Abdulkader Shaar - Chair
