Vice President’s Message May 2021

“The promise of spring’s arrival is enough to get anyone through the bitter winter!” 

— Jen Selinsky

Well, folks, we have made it through winter and the light at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic tunnel appears to finally be at hand. Thanks to science!! Despite all of this though, PCICS has remained a vibrant, nimble and active society thanks to the hard work and dedication of its committees and membership at large. I’d like to thank Melissa Jones for her tireless service as Vice President of our Society. As I’ve now assumed that role, it has become clear the immensity of her work and leadership of our awesome committees. Big (but stylish) shoes to fill for sure!!

Over the last few weeks, I have had the privilege to get to know each of the committee co-chairs and learn of the multitude of incredible projects they are carrying out (in spite of the difficulties of 2020)!! I’m truly excited about their ongoing and upcoming projects as they will facilitate the care of children with critical cardiac disease and their families. There is of course plenty of opportunity for our membership to remain engaged as well as a chance for new individuals to join projects they are passionate about. Over the coming year, we will present updates from each of the committees to guarantee that their work is known to all. Given the rapid change in the Society we have added 2 new committees – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Finance committees. The DEI is under the leadership of Megan Tracey, Shanelle Clarke and Ndidi Musa. The name speaks for itself and it will ensure the Society continues to develop in a responsible and responsive way. The Finance committee is under the leadership of Lindsey Justice and Mike Fundora. They will ensure the continued fiscal accountability of the Society as well as assure that we utilize our resources responsibly to facilitate the work of our committees and the Society as a whole. Both committees have daunting tasks in front of them, but we know they are up to the task and will make our Society better.

Lastly, we have crafted a new project proposal process that will ensure that projects align with our recently crafted Vision, Mission and Values, as well as ensure input from our DEI and Finance committees. Additionally, we will be reviewing our current projects and creating a dashboard to better track and facilitate their success as well as those of the new projects to come.

I look forward to the time when we can again gather in person and share the camaraderie we all love, enjoy and I for one terribly miss!! Until then I hope everyone and their families stay safe, healthy and optimistic for our future!!

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s Party!’”
— Robin Williams