Why AHRA is Special to Me

I was so honored to receive a scholarship sponsored by Fuji Film allowing me to attend the 2022 AHRA Annual Conference recently in Phoenix, Arizona. I received the call from my good friend John Beall (2022 AHRAEF Chair) notifying me I was awarded this opportunity and I am truly grateful. The AHRA has given me so much over the years and I have been fortunate enough to be able to give back as a volunteer in many different roles. This to me is what makes the AHRA such a special organization for Imaging leaders and it’s like no other group out there in healthcare leadership.

Serving on numerous committees, chairing local meetings, volunteering on-site and most recently serving as a member of the Annual Design Team are just a few ways I have been able to give back. There is truly something for everyone and I encourage you if you’re not involved to get involved because you are missing out! Click on this link to see current volunteer opportunities. https://connect.ahra.org/volunteeropportunities/opportunities-list-public

It was exciting and an honor to be a part of the kickoff of 50 years of the AHRA. This organization has promoted, educated and advanced radiology leaders for half a century which is remarkable. I am very passionate about AHRA and everything it offers to members. I attended my first Annual Conference in 2014 after receiving a similar scholarship, and I have been fortunate to be able to attend a majority of the Annual Conferences over the last seven or eight years. It’s very hard to put a value on this annual meeting experience. Over the years, I have made many friends within AHRA, and the Annual Conference feels like a Family Reunion.

I have been an AHRA member since 2002. I was hired in a Radiology Director role and needed resources to advance my knowledge. AHRA to the rescue. In 2004, I sat for the CRA (Certified Radiology Administrator) exam, took a leap of faith, took the test and received my CRA credentials. In 2018, I had my proudest moment and greatest sense of accomplishment by qualifying and receiving AHRA Fellow Status.

In true AHRA fashion of raising the bar on Imaging Leadership Excellence; the Leaders of Choice Program was introduced at this year’s conference. I am thrilled to be a part of this transformative educational program offered by AHRA, sponsored by United Imaging, and presented by Traction Business Development— powerful change-makers in the business of healthcare. This year-long masters-level educational experience for imaging leaders began at the 2022 Annual Conference and will culminate at AHRA 2023 in Indianapolis, IN next July.

I am looking forward to another exciting year with AHRA and the Leaders of Choice Program. When leaders stop learning, they stop growing and developing new skills needed to navigate this ever-changing world of Imaging in Healthcare.