The GRC on Heterocyclic Compounds is one of the longest running Gordon Research Conferences. Its longevity is a testament to the continual vitality of the subject. The preparation of heterocyclic compounds, or simply heterocyclic organic chemistry, is the prime tool for the preparation of natural and unnatural products. Heterocyclic organic chemistry is the major force behind the synthesis of novel bioactive molecules, including new pharmaceuticals. The continual evolution of the science allows for access to molecules of greater synthetic difficulty and increasingly diverse biological activities. I encourage all who are interested to apply to the meeting.