Balancing Progress and Gratitude as Summer Winds Down
It feels as though just yesterday I was reflecting on our progress in my July column, yet so much has happened since then. As we fully embrace the summer season, with vacations winding down and school year rapidly approaching, I find myself full of gratitude for these precious remaining weeks of summer. Striking a balance between family commitments, patient care, and my responsibilities within the SDPA has been a rewarding challenge—and one I’m still mastering!
Over the past month, our organization has been deeply engaged in evaluating our strategic plan and strategizing the implementation of key initiatives. We’ve focused on curating our committees, orienting our volunteers, and developing innovative programming opportunities, alongside executing an impactful and educational leadership summit. I’m excited to share more details with you all, as I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our exceptional staff and committed volunteers in their efforts to elevate the SDPA.
As you may recall from last month, one of our significant achievements has been the development and implementation of a new three-year strategic plan centered around the pillars of Knowledge, Advocacy, Leadership, and Engagement. This plan, closely aligned with our vision, mission, and core values, sets a clear course for the future of the SDPA. The leadership team has now taken the next step by adopting a tactical approach focused on specific initiatives that will drive the strategic plan forward year over year, delivering tangible results for our members. This organized strategy not only lays the groundwork for the successful future of our organization but also underscores our commitment to achieving remarkable outcomes together!
One of the key responsibilities I’ve embraced is curating the SDPA committees for the upcoming leadership year. This involves careful appointments of committee members, vice chairs, co-chairs, and chairs, a task I approached with the utmost thoughtfulness and intention. I meticulously assessed each committee's needs and the talents of our volunteers to ensure the most effective alignment of skills and knowledge for the success of the SDPA. In addition to the appointment of our established committees, I am excited to announce the addition of an 'Early Career' committee, chaired by Joe Cari PA-C. This new committee is dedicated to creating a supportive pathway for newer DermPAs™, offering programming that guides them as they navigate their careers from day one through to retirement. Furthermore, we have established a state affiliate liaison, Maggie McKernan DMSc, PA-C, who will provide essential support and resources to our state affiliates as they work to create, maintain, and grow their organizations. These initiatives are just a glimpse of the proactive measures we are taking behind the scenes to ensure the long-term success and prosperity of the SDPA. We are here for our members, and WE HEAR YOU!
In my last newsletter, I shared the enthusiasm surrounding our upcoming leadership summit, which took place in late July. This annual gathering unites our board of directors, committee chairs, and staff from across the nation to delve into non-profit governance, clarify individual roles and responsibilities, and engage intentionally with our strategic plan. This year, I adopted a three-pronged approach to leadership training, focusing on 'Creating Organizational Culture,' 'Developing Our Leadership Acumen,' and 'Planning for the Future of the SDPA.' Our primary goal for the summit was to orient all volunteers to their current roles, responsibilities, and objectives. I believe it is essential to provide our volunteers with the tools they need to succeed, empowering them to lead the SDPA in delivering meaningful benefits to our members. After three days filled with dynamic content and collaboration, I left the summit feeling a palpable sense of excitement and passion among our volunteers. I am incredibly grateful for this dedicated group, and I am confident that, together as a team, we have everything it takes to propel the SDPA to new heights.
As I reflect on the strides we've made within the SDPA, I am filled with appreciation for our history and tremendous optimism for the journey ahead. From implementing our new three-year strategic plan to empowering our volunteers through comprehensive leadership training, we are laying a strong foundation for the future of our organization. The addition of the 'Early Career' committee and the support provided by our state affiliate liaison demonstrates our commitment to positive changes, guiding new DermPAs™ on their professional paths and providing support at the state level.
Our members matter. Your voices matter, and we are dedicated to listening and responding to your needs as we move forward. Together, with our collective passion and determination, we will continue to elevate the SDPA and make a significant impact on the lives of DermPAs™ and the patients they serve. I look forward to this exciting journey ahead, and I can't wait to see all that we will accomplish together. Wishing you all an amazing month-filled passion, positivity and a focus on balance for your family, friends and careers.
Graciously yours,
Amber Blair, MMS, PA-C
President, SDPA Board of Directors
