As we enter 2010, the Disability Section has both great opportunities and challenges. We have a strong foundation built on a history of commitment and work that has advanced us from caucus to section status. In this short message, I want to acknowledge this excellent work, thank my colleagues and communicate my suggestions for our work this year.

First, as we have grown, we have also diversified in our interests, perspectives and fields of professional application.  This is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of disability within public health. However, while this diversity has been potent for debate and cross-fertilization, it has also created challenges in how we as a Section move forward in theorizing, investigating and responding to disability within the global public health arena. To clarify our foundational heuristics and guide our collective action, I see strategic planning as essential. This year, we have established a core strategic planning group that will be working with the full Section membership to clarify our mission and activity.

Second, as a crucial means to advance our centrality in and influence on public health, we need to distinguish the Disability Section as one that provides valued, rigorous and unique scholarship and collaborative opportunity for all current and potential members. Given the scarcity of fiscal resources, we need to communicate the opportunities and benefits of the Disability Section for membership initiation and continuation.

Third, I see this year as pivotal in promoting stimulating formats, methods and topics in the annual program. In particular, I would like to see us plan to showcase and disseminate the excellent work of our membership more broadly throughout APHA and to structure session formats that allow critical discussion of important content and inquiry approaches informing disability and public health.

Finally, our future lies with the students of today. We need to plan strategies for mentorship and collaboration such that students see a benefit not only in joining the Disability Section but in becoming active and vital members and future leaders.