January 28, 2026
After officially stepping into the Executive Director role on January 1, I have been sitting with the tension of three different thoughts: big shoes, challenging times, and hope.
- Stepping into the footsteps left behind by Julie’s tireless, unwavering leadership over the past 10 years feels daunting.
- The work of caring for children and their families through support for pediatric providers is more important today than it has been in recent years; we are living through a particularly difficult era.
- Our current and future work is fueled by myriad opportunities that are busting at the seams with possibility, promise and potential.
When the tension borders on overwhelm, I speak out loud with certainty, conviction and purpose: “Work tirelessly. Listen deeply. Serve passionately.” It is with this verbal reminder that I ground myself in the true amazingness that is the Oregon Pediatric Society.
It is our staff.
It is our Board of Directors.
It is our Advocacy Committee.
It is our Pediatric Council.
It is our connection to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
And most importantly, it is our members.
It is through and with each and every one of you that I am reminded that this is not a solo journey, but a shared one. Collectively, we lift each other in important and immeasurable ways to ensure that all children grow as healthy and productive members of their respective communities. Together, we can do the critical work that needs to be done, and I am humbled and honored to be part of our shared journey.
If you are already an OPS member, thank you. We need your engagement and involvement now, more than ever before. If you are not an OPS member, please consider becoming one. And last but certainly not least, if you want to support our mission and our ability to do more, make a tax-deductible donation today.
As I continue to get my feet underneath me, I encourage you to reach out and share your vision and perspectives. I want to hear about what you think is going well, what changes you would like to see, what should or could be reenvisioned, and what you love about this amazing organization and all of the opportunity that lies ahead. You can reach me by email or phone; my door (literally and figuratively) is open.
With appreciation, gratitude and hope,
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