From left to right: Patricia Ares-Romero, M.D., immediate past president of the Dade County Medical Association (DCMA); Adriana Bonansea-Frances, M.D., DCMA president; Rose Berkun, M.D., Chair, DCMA Women in Medicine Committee; Julie Kantor, M.D., DCMA president-elect. Photo by Jock Fistick
First Argentinean-born President of the Dade County Medical Association since its founding in 1903
June 16, 2025 -The Dade County Medical Association (DCMA) is proud to announce the inauguration of its new president, Adriana Bonansea-Frances, M.D. The transition of leadership took place on Saturday, June 14th, 2025, during the 115th DCMA Presidential Inauguration Gala.
The event celebrated the accomplishments of the immediate past president, Patricia Ares-Romero, M.D., and welcomed Adriana Bonansea-Frances, M.D., as the first Argentinean-born president –and seventh female physician– in the association’s 122-year history. Having two female presidents lead the association two years in a row marks a significant milestone in the DCMA’s ongoing commitment to diversity and excellence in medical leadership.
Dr. Bonansea-Frances brings a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing medical practice and patient care in Miami-Dade County. In her inaugural address, she emphasized the importance of prevention. “As President of the DCMA, one of my key priorities will be to expand the association’s efforts to educate the general public on the importance of prevention and obtaining medical and health information from legitimate sources.”
The DCMA’s Presidential Inauguration Gala was also an opportunity to honor the service of Dr. Patricia Ares-Romero, whose tenure has been marked by significant contributions to the association and the broader medical community. Reflecting on her accomplishments, Dr. Ares-Romero highlighted that “We are officially changing our name from the Dade County Medical Association to the Miami-Dade County Medical Association. This change better reflects the county we represent and the physicians who call it home. Our new logotype, to be launched in the days to come, symbolizes our enduring dedication to advancing healthcare in Miami-Dade County.”
During the evening, Dr. Bonansea-Frances expressed her gratitude to the DCMA leaders that will work with her this year, including the Board of Directors, Advisory Members, Physicians in Training, and Medical Student Representatives. They bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to advancing the medical profession and improving healthcare in Miami-Dade County.
2025-2026 Executive Committee:
Adriana Bonansea-Frances, M.D.
Julie Kantor, M.D., President-Elect
Jorge Luis Marcos, M.D., Vice-President
Damaris Mafut, D.O., Secretary/Treasurer
Patricia Ares-Romero, M.D., Immediate Past President
2025-2026 Board members:
Veronica Alvarez-Galiana, M.D.
Rose Berkun, M.D.
Enrique Fernandez, M.D.
Eugene Fu, M.D.
Raul Grosz, M.D.
Juan Diego Oms, M.D.
Estela Rodriguez, M.D.
Audrea Vaughan, D.O.
About the DCMA:
Founded in 1903, the Dade County Medical Association is committed to advocating for physicians, patients, and the community to ensure the highest quality of healthcare. The association provides a platform for medical professionals to collaborate, share knowledge, and influence healthcare policies.