Join a Committee
About SDPA Volunteer Leadership
With over 5,100 members, SDPA provides dynamic leadership for dermatology physician assistants across the nation. SDPA Committee volunteers play an invaluable role and the contributions they make impact the day-to-day work of SDPA, as well as shape the future of the DermPA™ profession. Our committees and their work reflect the organization's eight core values: Community, Dedication, Diversity, Excellence, Integrity, Innovation, Respect, and Resilience.
The Call for Volunteers is now open and will close on May 3, 2026.
Click here to apply
Application Timeline
Applications for each term open in the spring. Below is a general timeline of when selections are completed and candidates are notified each year.
- Early Spring: Leadership Elections
- Early/Mid Spring: Call for Volunteers Applications accepted
- Late Spring/Early Summer: Committee members appointed (all candidates are contacted whether selected or not)
- July 1: New annual leadership and committee term begins
- By August 31: Each committee holds its first meeting for the cycle
There are many ways you can get involved with SDPA. Whether you are an experienced leader or just entering the field of dermatology, there is a place for you at SDPA.
- Serve on an SDPA committee.
- Volunteer for a leadership role.
- Contribute or write for the JDPA.
- Serve as an SDPA conference session presenter.
- Become an SDPA distance learning instructor.
Current Committee Roster
For the current committee roster, please consult our Standing Committees page.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: When does the Call for Volunteers take place?
A: Early/Mid Spring. All SDPA members are notified via email once applications are open.
Q: What are SDPA Committees where I can make an impact?
Q: How do I apply?
A: During the application window, members complete a short Call for Volunteers survey indicating their interest. The survey remains open for several weeks, and selections are made in June. The new term begins July 1. Committee meetings commence by the end of August.
Q: What is involved in volunteering for a committee?
A: Each committee is different, but volunteers should expect to offer around 1-3 hours of their time each month to the work of the committee. This includes virtual meetings, usually one per quarter or more, depending on the committee, where you contribute your valuable perspective and great ideas to the group discussion. Special committee projects may require some limited volunteer time outside of meetings. SDPA is sensitive to the busy lives of our volunteers, and the work of each committee is supported by the full time SDPA staff.
A: Most committees require 3-5 hours per quarter. This includes quarterly virtual meetings (additional, as required) and occasional offline contributions (e.g., reviewing documents or sharing feedback). Our SDPA staff supports each committee to ensure a manageable workload for all volunteers.
Q: How are Committee Chairs and Vice Chairs chosen?
A: Committee Chairs are appointed by the incoming SDPA President for that annual cycle. Vice Chairs are selected by the committee members themselves. The Vice Chair is an important committee role and a valuable pathway for future consideration for appointment to the Committee Chair position.
Q: How long do I have to be a member before applying?
A: We welcome all SDPA members to volunteer. Whether you are brand new or have been with SDPA for 30 years. We welcome you.
Ready to shape the future of DermPAs™?
Whether you're new to dermatology or a seasoned leader, SDPA welcomes your voice. Our committees are a powerful way to make an impact, build connections, and advance your leadership journey.