President's Update, May 2015

Robert C. Smallridge, M.D. ATA President

Dear ATA Colleagues,

Time has passed quickly, and it has been almost seven months since our last annual meeting at the "DEL" in Coronado, which means there are only five months until the ATA hosts the 15th International Thyroid Congress in Lake Buena Vista (Orlando). Besides a Strategic Planning Retreat in late January, our committees have been busy addressing many issues important to the functioning of the organization. The success of the ATA relies on volunteerism and service by its members on many committees and task forces, and I encourage every ATA member to consider serving on a committee. You will meet members who share your passion for thyroid research, education and clinical care, and your engagement will bring with it the satisfaction of helping support the many functions of the ATA.

I would especially encourage our younger members to become involved with the ATA committees. Our President-elect, Dr. Tony Bianco, is responsible for appointing members for the next year, and it is always helpful to hear from members not only of their interest, but also in what capacity. There are many options, and during one's professional career comes the opportunity to serve on a variety of committees. Our committees include: Awards; Bylaws; Clinical Affairs; Development; Nominating; Program; Publications; Public Health; Ethics Advisory; Finance and Audit; History and Archives; Internet Communications; Lab Services; Research; Surgical Affairs; Trainees and Career Advancement; and Membership.

Please complete the online form found in members only on the ATA website if you wish to become active in committee affairs. I would suggest that you list several that would be of interest, as we have many members who enjoy committee work and we want to allow as many as possible the opportunity to enjoy the rewards of being an ATA committee member.

It is also time to register for the ITC and to submit Abstracts for the meeting. We expect an excellent international event, and I hope you and your guests will all be able to attend. Orlando holds many interesting activities for you and your guests at Disney http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/tours.htm – and beyond http://itc2015.orlandomeetinginfo.com/things-to-do/

Please visit our meeting website to register, submit abstracts and view the scientific program http://www.thyroid.org/itc2015/program.html, so well planned by the Program Organizing Committee, chaired by Dr. Rebecca Bahn.

I look forward to meeting you at the 15th ITC!

Sincerely,

Robert C. Smallridge, MD
ATA President