Advocate as a State Ambassador

Purpose

State Ambassadors serve as an informational and networking resource for SDPA members in your state and enhance the SDPA’s efforts to encourage members to explore and participate in SDPA programming, activities, and community.

State Ambassador Leadership Traits

  • Approachability
  • Visibility
  • Responsiveness
  • Commitment

Appointment Process

Ambassadors must be current SDPA members and work and/or reside in the state they seek to represent. They must maintain active membership throughout their appointed term. 

To become an SDPA State Ambassador, please complete this form. Submissions will be reviewed and approved by the SDPA Board President. When submitting your application, please be prepared to provide your CV.

Please note that in states where an SDPA State Affiliate group in good standing operates, the SDPA State Ambassador is appointed by that group pending final approval by the SDPA President.

State Ambassador Responsibilities

  • Promote the SDPA mission and values to members and non-members in your state.
  • Serve as a point of contact for state-specific questions from SDPA members.
  • Foster networking among SDPA members in your state.
  • Encourage member participation in SDPA programs and activities:
  • Promote member attendance to SDPA conferences, especially when they are located in your state or region.
  • Motivate SDPA members to submit articles to the JDPA and abstracts for SDPA conferences.
  • Foster leadership within the SDPA member community:
  • Encourage member participation in SDPA committees, elected office, and other volunteer opportunities.
  • Recommend SDPA members in your state for the Annual SDPA Awards.
  • Promote professional development opportunities such as the Diplomate Fellowship.

 

Ambassador terms are for two years and can start anytime, but will always end on June 30 of a given year.

State Ambassador FAQs

Do I have to be a member of the SDPA to be an ambassador?

Yes. Ambassadors must be a member of the SDPA in good standing. They must maintain active membership through their terms.

How long is a term as ambassador?

Terms are generally for two years and end on June 30. Ambassadors whose terms are due to expire will receive an email asking if they would like to continue for another term.

Is travel required?

There is no travel required for ambassadors, but we do encourage ambassadors to go to our summer and fall conferences. This is particularly important when a conference is located in your state or region.

A peer is already an ambassador for my state; can I be an ambassador too?

There is only one ambassador per state at a time, but please let us know of your interest even if you see someone listed for your state. Their term may be expiring soon, or we may have another volunteer opportunity available for you.

What happens if my membership lapses while I am an ambassador?

We ask that you renew your membership as soon as possible as SDPA membership is required to maintain the state ambassador role.

What do I do if I no longer wish to be the ambassador for my state?

If you no longer wish to be an ambassador or if you leave your place of employment, please send an email to membership@dermpa.org.

What do I do if I move away from my state?

If you are moving to another state, please email membership@dermpa.org.

Becoming a State Ambassador

Complete this form to apply to become the State Ambassador for your state.