Transitions

Speaking of NAMSS...  Some of you may know that this is my third year on the NAMSS Conference Committee, and that I am serving as Assistant Chair for the 2007 New York City Conference. 

Over the past decade I've held a number of leadership positions in both the National and State organizations, and what a fantastic experience that has been!  I can't say enough about how much I've learned, how many interesting, inspirational, and down-right fun people I've met as a direct result of that volunteerism.   I count among my friends and acquaintances some of the brightest, most forward-thinking individuals in and around the field of medical staff administration.

I've had a "behind-the scenes" peek at just how much work goes into:

• Developing a national conference program
• Contracting excellent speakers
• Planning a luncheon for over 1000 people
• Planning pre and post conference events
• Writing, designing, and printing a myriad of complex, high-quality documents
• Arranging for enough hotel rooms in a major metropolitan city to accommodate expected attendees, but not so many that the organization is left with a staggering bill for the ones that remain unbooked
• Attracting and accommodating vendors and sponsors who not only help make a conference financially viable, but offer valuable products and services to attendees
• Designing and developing a national web site
• Writing, designing, and selling advertising for a national publication
• Developing industry-specific, credible, certification programs
• Attracting new organization members and retaining current ones
• Supporting, encouraging, and educating a diverse membership

It has been an excellent experience, though not always a smooth journey.  In addition to the travel, collaboration, and sometimes heady sense of accomplishment, I've also experienced frustration, anxiety, misunderstandings, and hurt feelings.  But truthfully, I've gotten through all of that and come out smarter on the other side.

So as the voice of considerable experience, I encourage you to step up.  Volunteer.  Learn and grow.

This however, is a year of transition for me.  About six months ago I changed positions and am now learning the field of Hospital Risk Management; a fascinating turn in my career path. I'm also excited about another opportunity that is percolating in the background, but that I anticipate will be ready for "prime time" soon.   

In view of all of these changes, I have resigned from the NAMSS Conference Committee effective at the end of the New York Conference.  I plan to maintain my certification, so I expect to attend some conferences, and to continue to speak from time to time at State Association meetings. I've already submitted a recommendation to ASHRM (American Society for Healthcare Risk Management) to consider a collaboration with NAMSS on future education sessions; it's a natural fit.

So, if you're planning to be in New York, keep your eye out for this face:

I'd love the opportunity to say hello and wish you well.