Letter from the Board President

As we continue to inspire young people to choose family medicine, it’s critical that we offer essential leadership development early in their careers.

That’s exactly what the Family Medicine Leads program is designed to do for both students and residents.

Every year the program provides 250 students a scholarship to attend the National Conference, where they learn more about family medicine, explore residency programs, network with other professionals, and explore leadership opportunities with the Student and Resident Congress. This year that will take place on July 27 to 29.

After the National Conference, the Foundation extends the learning opportunities with Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute (ELI) in-depth workshops on July 29 and 30.

Participants develop and complete a project, and they are also paired with a family physician mentor who offers monthly guidance and project support. The top student project finalists receive a stipend to the National Conference the following year to present their projects and the opportunity to participate in ELI-related activities.

This edition of The Compass also highlights other important programs and people in our family medicine community. Read about the uplifting work of the Family Medicine Cares International delegation. Discover how the Family Medicine Chapter Alliance helps chapters support their local communities. And get inspired by AAFP President Tochi Iroku-Malize’s engaging documentary, “Black Female Physician Leaders.”

Here’s to community and creating the next generation of family medicine leaders.

With appreciation,

Dave