Title: Message From The Chair
Author:
Section/SPIG: Epidemiology
Issue Date:
The Epidemiology Section under Dr. Robert McKeown's leadership as Chairman for 2001-2003 is positioned for a very positive 2004. We have increased membership in the section, enlarged student involvement and given them access to greater leadership roles, and more effectively collaborated with other Sections and Special Interest Groups (SPIGs). Additionally, we are working on building even more bridges with Affiliates. However, it is time for Section members to lend their feedback on how best to ensure that this section--the 2nd largest in the organization--succeeds in ensuring that the foundation science of public health is proactive and relevant in the teaching, research, and practice of public health. Please take a moment to review our Strategic Plan posted on the section website (http://www.human.cornell.edu/pam/apha/index.htm) and to provide comments. APHA is the organization that allows epidemiologists to effectively partner with public health practitioners from all professional backgrounds and with all levels of experience, from beginning practitioner to national health leaders.
In the coming months, the Epidemiology Section asks you to get involved. You can do this through:
* submitting abstracts or Special Sessions to the 2004 Annual Meeting in Washington, DC; Sessions in collaboration with other Sections are particularly attractive and welcome,
* running for office (see list of offices and job descriptions on the Section web-site),
* nominating stellar epidemiologists for Section awards that will be granted at the annual meeting,
* encouraging students to get involved through applying for student scholarships or planning to shadow an Epidemiology Section Governing Councilor at the 2004 meeting,
* working with your Affiliate to ensure a voice for Epidemiology and sharing your successes integrating Section and Affiliate activities back to the Section,
* reviewing and improving the Epidemiology Section Strategic Plan to fully incorporate the APHA priorities of reducing health disparities, providing universal access to care, and improving the public health infrastructure,
* writing (alone or in groups) policy resolutions for debate at the 2004 annual meeting,
* creating and implementing special projects to fulfill the Section and APHA mission.
This year we will continue the visionary work started by Dr. Betsy Foxman when she was Chair, which is collaborating with major North American epidemiology associations (of which we are the largest) to plan the 2006 Epidemiology Congress in Seattle, Washington (see article below).
APHA is a democratic organization and values member input and creativity. The Epidemiology Section is fortunate to have a core leadership group filled with talented, dedicated and enthusiastic epidemiologists. With even greater membership involvement, we can further strengthen the effect and visibility of our profession. Please get involved today!
Sarah L. Patrick, MPH, PhD
email: spatrick@usd.edu
Related Files:
Message_from_the_Chair__final_1_.doc