(Vice) President's Message | August 2019 | Leadership BINGO!

Aug 14, 2019

Dear Colleagues -

I am thrilled to take you inside the world of leadership! The SDPA Annual Leadership Retreat took place Thursday, July 25th - Sunday, July 28th, and was nothing less than inspirational. The 2019-2020 Board, Committee, and SDPA Staff had a productive three days of a packed agenda that included BINGO, yes BINGO, to get to know leaders more on a personal level. Little did we know that the SDPA leaders are made up of a beekeeper, a prior correctional officer, and even a descendant of an Italian Princess. There is also someone who was hypnotized by the FBI in a murder investigation. This group of "go-getters" is set to lead the SDPA over the coming year, and each of us is excited to work with our members, a fantastic group of individuals that includes YOU! 

This year’s retreat was held at the beautiful Belmond Charleston Place Hotel in Charleston, SC. The location was chosen by current SDPA President, Ms. Gina Mangin, who helped us all with our Southern Charm. Yes, we had some fun, but a lot of work was accomplished as well. We started with leadership and communication training by Drew Lawson, MD. The course taught us self-awareness of the mind and how powerful it can be, how we can control it, and what to do with it.  Did you know that each of us has a “Judge,” within us? It is true that each of us is our own harshest critic. Yes, ALL of us. It was an eye-opening experience to learn from such an inspirational person and I plan to take the lessons learned into my daily activities, whether personal or professional. Without a doubt, champions are born from this lesson.  

Our second day consisted of reviewing the SDPA's strategic plan timeline and focused on the work of the SDPA Committees. Talk about teamwork!  No stone went unturned as smaller breakout groups held discussions about the CME Conference, Distance CME, Industry Relations, House of Delegates (HOD), Legislative Affairs, Membership, State Constituents, and Publications & Communications (which included Public Education). The synergy, brainstorming of ideas, and execution of plans were all well documented. You can look forward to the implementation of exciting things within the next few years at the SDPA. Look out, here we come…stronger, bolder, and better!

There is a lot to look forward to, and we would love for you to be a part of all of it. The SDPA has a variety of individual committees on which members, just like you, can serve and become more involved with the organization. Whether you put in one hour per week or five, the SDPA is always looking for new leaders, perspectives and ideas. This year’s retreat in Charleston proved to me that everyone is truly unique, and each of us can contribute to the SDPA from a different perspective.  

Leadership - it's an honor to serve.  The SDPA is always seeking new leaders and it would be an honor for you to be a part of our BINGO. Are you ready?

 

Sincerely,

Renata Block, MMS, PA-C

Vice President, SDPA Board of Directors

 

Comments...

Deborah A. Steinbar says...

Posted Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Dear Renata...not only are you a beautiful person but an excellent writer. The SDPA is so very fortunate to have you on the leadership committee. Best to you and the organization. From a retired SDPA Diplomate, Deborah