News

President's Column | January 2026

January is a time of fresh starts—but for many of us in dermatology, it can also feel like a whirlwind. Formularies shift, deductibles reset, and new coding changes loom on the horizon. It’s a lot. And if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

That’s why SDPA is here.

2022 - Joe Monroe Lifetime Achievement Award

Esther has dedicated her life to the advancement dermatology PAs.

2022 - Educator/Preceptor of the Year Award

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, PA-C, Winner of 2022 Educator/Preceptor of the Year Award

2022 Service Award

Cynthia Trickett, MPAS, PA-C, Winner of 2022 Service Award

2022 - New DermPA™ of the Year Award

Colleen Fairhurst, PA-C, Winner of 2022 New DermPA™ of the Year Award

2022 - DermPA™ of the Year

In less than four years as a dermatology PA, Peter Young’s passion for learning and medical writing has advanced the profession and broken-down barriers within the dermatologic research community.

President's Column | October 2022

PA Week reminds us how important recognition and appreciation are for motivation and morale in our demanding profession. While burnout is real, taking time to acknowledge each other’s hard work helps us refill our cups and continue serving with pride.

President’s Message | September 2022

Fall means football season in Alabama, a time of deep loyalty, excitement, and community. Like football, medicine demands teamwork, discipline, perseverance, goal-setting, and learning from wins and losses to serve others at our best.

President’s Message | August 2022

The first month of the SDPA leadership year has flown by, filled with goal-setting, strategic planning, and meaningful progress toward our mission. Though the days feel long, this labor of love is already yielding momentum and excitement for the year ahead.

President’s Message | July 2022

Summer brings a relaxed, joyful pause, while at SDPA, July marks the start of a new leadership year with goals to strengthen education and member support. As you enjoy “sweet summertime,” your leadership team is working to advance SDPA’s mission for you and your patients.