President's Column

Read archives from AAN Past President Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA, FAAN, who served from May 2021 to April 2023.

December 2022

The Joy of Giving Through Volunteering

When I joined the Medical Economics Subcommittee in 1998, I didn’t know a sole person there. But its members, who welcomed me from my very first day, included wonderful people like Nelson G. Richards, MD, FAAN, the first practicing neurologist to be elected as AAN president in 1983. Nelson, who has been credited as bringing the community of practicing neurologists into the mainstream of the organization, encouraged me as I started teaching courses at AAN meetings, and later, writing for Neurology Today^®. He sent me occasional emails long after he retired, including one several months prior to his death in December of 2020 when he learned I had been named president elect.

One of the top reasons I’ve looked forward to my AAN work in the decades since has been the opportunity to work with extraordinary people like Nelson and so many who came after him. There is a unique camaraderie from volunteering at the AAN which reaps rewards that far outweigh the sacrifices. Over the years I have met so many remarkable members—as well as dedicated and talented staff—who have enriched my life and made me ever so grateful to be part of this diverse and magnificent organization.

As we reflect on this past year, I want to thank you all for your AAN membership as well as your dedication and support to our profession, and to encourage you to explore more opportunities to get involved in our AAN community. I asked AAN committee chairs why they enjoy volunteering at the AAN and/or their community, and here is a sampling of their responses.

Happy Holidays,

Orly Avitzur, MD, MBA, FAAN
President, AAN
oavitzur@aan.com
@OrlyA on Twitter

For me, one of the greatest joys is volunteering, whether that means staffing a free clinic, helping the AAN complete its mission, or simply assisting where work is needed. It gives me a sense of humility because I know other people and causes are bigger than myself and it allows me to connect with others.
—Joseph I. Sirven, MD, FAAN
Chair, Education Committee

As a volunteer, I have greatly benefited from working with our Academy. What a remarkable way to learn, gain experience, and connect with outstanding people with the same goals of working with an extraordinary organization to advance science and patient care simultaneously.
—Ann H. Tilton, MD, FAAN
Chair, Meeting Management Committee

I truly enjoy volunteering for an organization when I believe in the mission and the core values resonate with me, and I know that collectively my efforts, along with others and an amazing expert staff, will have a definite impact on our profession and the field of neurology. It’s so rewarding to know that together our time and effort will pay off and make a lasting difference for many others. You also make tremendous friends forever and learn so much about strategic planning and organizational structure that you can take back home to help your own practice, department, or community. I always tell people that getting involved with the AAN is the best antidote for burnout and helps you become part of the solution.
—Ralph L. Sacco, MD, MS, FAHA, FAAN
Chair, Academic Neurology Committee

The AAN is a key hub for the world of neurology, and I regard my participation to be an important part of my identity as a pediatric neurologist. It is an honor to be a member and volunteer in this dynamic organization.
—Peter B. Kang, MD, FAAN, FAAN
Chair, Grievance Committee

The best antidote for physician burnout is being a volunteer for the AAN. Over the years, I have had the privilege of interacting with wonderful AAN staff and colleagues on many committees and subcommittees. You get to discuss neurology with colleagues you might not otherwise have met, network over delicious crudités, think about complex advocacy topics, and laugh together.
—Lynne P. Taylor, MD, FAAN
Chair, Fair Hearing Panel Committee

The AAN has been a game changer. The staff and volunteers are dedicated, thoughtful, and intelligent. I feel my contribution actually makes a difference and that's not always easy in the massive, ever-changing health care landscape. I've received far more than I have given and achieved more than I could imagine.
—James N. Goldenberg, MD, FAAN
Chair, Board Planning Committee

Providers continue losing decision making control over patient care. However, volunteering at the AAN helps give back agency, incredible insight into the challenges that impact practice, and better tools to fight for change. The AAN also offers fantastic opportunities to meet others with similar interests and passions, where new ideas are cultivated, and lifelong friendships are made. Not a pitch, just reality.
—Brad C. Klein, MD, MBA, FAAN
Chair, Medical Economics and Practice

Several years ago, I was burnt out, and was considering a career change. Volunteering for the AAN I found a new focus, a vibrant and supportive community, and a renewed sense of purpose. Because of my experience, I was able to make decisions with a sense of enthusiasm rather than despondency.
—José G. Merino, MD, MPhil, FAHA, FAAN
Chair, Publications Committee
Editor-in-Chief, Neurology^®

My service to the AAN is a natural extension of the values instilled in me by my family and in keeping with the calling of our profession. My membership and activity in the Academy have allowed me to exercise and develop aspects of my career that would not have been possible in my day job. It is also tremendously energizing to work with the staff and colleagues who share the joy of service!
—Charles C. Flippen II, MD, FAAN
Chair, Joint Finance Committee