GREETINGS FROM THE CHAIR

Dear Colleagues:

As this is my last missive to you as chair, I am pleased to note the extraordinary work of our Section over the last years, and my belief that it will continue with Malcolm Bryant as chair. We have seen the strengthening of committees, including the recognition by the executive director of the work of our Global Health Committee, work led by Gopal, the recognition by executive staff of the Policy and Advocacy Committee, work led by Jirair and Amy before him. Our Program continues to be outstanding thanks to Omar and Mike. Further, we have made real progress together on a strategic plan, which will be presented for consideration to the leadership at the Annual Meeting and will be shared for comments by the membership over the next year.  In addition, there has been a very positive response to our e-mails to all membership asking for their input; this has increased inquiries, as have the other electronic efforts, including the website, blog, newsletter, and other outreach to increase involvement and to ensure that members feel more a part of the Section, as we, more than most, are scattered around the globe. We are launching a new Committee on MCHN and consolidating others, while our strong Community-based Primary Health Committee continues its extraordinary work. Finally, while all Sections are losing members, we are holding strong in comparison, thanks to our dedicated Membership Committee and related efforts.

Please allow me this opportunity to thank you, one and all, for your ongoing efforts to keep the International Health Section the outstanding organization that it is, and for your enthusiasm for Health for All.

Warmly,

Miriam 

--Miriam Labbok, MD, MPH, Chair IH Section, Telephone: (919) 966-0928; Fax: (919) 966-0458;   labbok@unc.edu