"When I first joined HOPA, I thought I would just obtain CE and perhaps present some research posters - boy, did I underestimate how much value I would garner from being an active member of this organization! With my mentor pushing me toward more active HOPA engagement right out of residency, I quickly realized how much more this group can offer and, in turn, how much more I can contribute. Through volunteering and networking, I have developed meaningful connections and friendships with colleagues across the country. These relationships have become an invaluable resource to support one another professionally. As your representative on the HOPA Board as an at-large member, I want to emulate the energy I saw in my early-career mentors to help create that same meaningful and enjoyable experience for others. To accomplish this, I will focus on fostering opportunities for collaboration and helping develop offerings that provide tangible value to members at every stage of their careers with the ultimate goal of improving our workplaces, workflow, and patient outcomes.

"Investing in HOPA has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Over the years, I have actively participated in various committees, spanning membership to programming and research, including serving as chair several times. With each volunteer experience, I feel a sense of gratitude for what I receive from those interactions and pride in the deliverables we offer our fellow members. My goal is always to improve efficiency of processes; enhance our educational, BCOP, and research opportunities; and consider innovative options to meet the needs of our members. Last year, I submitted a Big Idea proposal and was honored to receive the final award based on fellow HOPA member votes. This led to the implementation of the HOPA CORe Center, a hub for research assistance and collaboration. As a Board member, I would continue to advocate for enhanced resources for our members to improve research with the ultimate goal of enhancing patient care and pharmacy operations.

"Overall, based on my professional experience as a clinical specialist, faculty member, residency program director, and researcher, I can represent so many of my fellow HOPA members in ensuring their needs are met, concerns are heard, and engagement is stimulated. I practice at a smaller academic center that is housed within a larger non-academic health system where we primarily serve a rural and underserved population. This offers me the ability to understand the needs and limitations of many of my fellow members who also work in these environments. As a Board member-at-large, I will strive to ensure that as we execute our Strategic Plan, that the needs, perspective, and unique considerations of all of our members are the focus of decision making.