The COVID-19 pandemic has brought widespread cancellations and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals to stay calm, informed, and supportive. The SDPA continues planning for the Summer Conference while elections proceed online, encouraging members to stay engaged and vote.
February is a time to celebrate love and friendship, and I’m reflecting on the many reasons I love being a dermatology PA. From restoring patients’ confidence to working alongside a dedicated care team, these moments remind me why I love what I do.
Happy New Year, SDPA Members! Exciting changes are ahead with a refreshed JDPA journal and new specialty groups launching in 2020 to enhance networking and education within our dermatology PA community.
Happy Holidays! Amid the busy season, let’s remember to appreciate the love and friendships that enrich our lives. I’m deeply grateful for my family, my dermatology practice, and the incredible experience of helping celebrate SDPA’s 25th anniversary and its most successful Fall Conference yet.
In November, the SDPA Fall Conference in Scottsdale celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a record 700 attendees. Highlights included a Welcome Reception, 5K run, Mingle Zone, and Headshot Studio. The newly formed Nominating Committee has improved the leadership nomination process, and members are encouraged to meet them at the November 23 reception to explore leadership opportunities.
October celebrates dermatology PAs with a week-long event (October 6-12) featuring the SDPA’s new “Thank a Derm PA” campaign, including posters and videos. Excitement is also growing for the Fall Conference in Scottsdale, which aims to set attendance records and continue the SDPA’s 25th Anniversary festivities.
Labor Day and September mark the transition to Fall and the upcoming 17th Annual SDPA Fall Dermatology Conference in Scottsdale. The SDPA also celebrates the launch of Module 21 completing the Diplomate Fellowship and the debut of the new SDPA Connect online community forum for members.
The SDPA Annual Leadership Retreat in Charleston blended fun with focused training and planning, empowering leaders to grow personally and professionally. Exciting initiatives are ahead, and SDPA invites you to step into leadership with us!
In 2019, the SDPA marked its 25th year with a leadership transition and a new independent operational structure, including dedicated staff and headquarters. As the new President, I am committed to strengthening the SDPA brand through leadership development, expanded educational offerings, and enhanced member engagement.
The SDPA’s 16th Annual Fall Conference in Orlando was a success with strong member engagement, a lively reception, and educational sessions, while the DPAF raised over $11,000 for Camp Wonder. The SDPA has also hired JPA Health Communications to advance advocacy and social media presence, continuing to strengthen the role of dermatology PAs nationwide.
