The Executive Program Group for Microscopy and Microanalysis (M&M) 2004 set out with the challenge of drafting a compelling scientific program for the annual meetings of the Microscopy Society of America (MSA) and the Microbeam Analysis Society (MAS) that would be equal to the excitement of organizational change being discussed by the societies. We feel that we have met the challenge, providing a diverse and balanced program that looks forward to new opportunities and presents the current state-of-the-art for microscopy and microanalysis. For the third consecutive year, the program is strengthened by the co-sponsorship of the International Metallographic Society (IMS), which is fast becoming an annual partner in the M&M meetings.