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President's Column | August 2025
As summer begins to wind down, a familiar rhythm returns. Baseball and soccer seasons wrap up, evenings grow quieter, and my boys—ages 14, 11, and 11—are making the most of every last moment of summer here in Wisconsin. Late-night swims, backyard games, and ice cream runs remind me how special this time of year is—a blend of calm, joy, and the sense that something new is just ahead.
This season also marks a meaningful shift in my professional journey. Following a vacancy in the president-elect position, our bylaws required the board to vote in a successor from a pool of qualified candidates selected by the nominating committee. These candidates are carefully vetted for leadership experience, years of service, and their dedication to SDPA. Having served most recently as secretary/treasurer—and in various leadership capacities before that—I was honored to be selected by the board to serve as SDPA President. I hadn’t set my sights on this role, but I felt ready to answer when the opportunity came. I step into this position with humility, energy, and a deep commitment to the members of our great society.
Each year, we begin our leadership cycle with the SDPA Leadership Summit—a space where ideas flourish, relationships strengthen, and collaboration takes center stage. It’s one of the most inspiring moments of the year. To witness colleagues encouraging one another and challenging each other to grow is a powerful reminder of what shared leadership can do.
A quote I often return to is from Booker T. Washington: “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up others.” That sentiment guides me in leadership, parenting, and daily life. True leadership, to me, isn’t about hierarchy—it’s about creating space for others to shine, inviting conversation, and reminding people that their presence and voice truly matter.
It also means supporting those who may not yet see themselves as leaders—seasoned DermPAs, new DermPAs, and others who bring fresh perspectives and untapped potential. When we create space for emerging leaders within SDPA, we ensure our DermPA community remains innovative, diverse, and connected.
In many ways, leadership mirrors parenting: listening deeply, offering encouragement through tough moments, and sometimes stepping back so others can step forward. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader. A great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves.” Whether mentoring an aspiring PA, guiding my office team, or cheering from the sidelines, this is the kind of leadership I strive to embody.
There’s something incredibly powerful about a community that listens, supports, and grows together. When we share generously—our energy, insights, and encouragement—we build something lasting and meaningful within SDPA.
Looking ahead, keep an eye out for great opportunities to get involved—whether through volunteering, mentorship, leadership, or simply connecting with fellow members on Connect. And mark your calendar: we’re crafting a conference that blends high-impact learning with warm Southern hospitality in San Antonio, and we’d love to have you there.
Warmly,
Sarah Vicari
