I am incredibly excited and grateful to welcome everyone to the new Learner Access, Support, Opportunity, and Retention Group Research, Engagement, Growth, and Scholarship Community of Practice!
I’m honored to serve as Chairs of the inaugural committee charged with leading and serving the community in exploring ways to support and advance scholarly activity, mentorship, and professional and leadership development for students, staff, and faculty. Together, we will consider how to foster collaboration, peer-to-peer learning, and create meaningful pathways for engagement.
One of our initial key areas of focus will be exploring mentoring programs and initiatives. I am eager to hear your perspectives on what worked well within the legacy affinity groups, as well as your ideas for new approaches to strengthen this work. We will also explore opportunities for personal and professional development, scholarship, and leadership growth.
I am truly honored that the AAMC has asked me to chair this new Community of Practice. I am an emergency physician by training and have been involved in medical education since 2000. Reflecting on my career, I recognize the hidden challenges I experienced as a first-generation college student and the child of immigrants. When I stepped into the role of associate dean of student affairs, my regional GSA community became a welcoming space where I could listen, ask questions, and better understand what it means to lead in student affairs. I am excited to partner across our functional areas to build and strengthen this Community of Practice.
As we launch the Research, Engagement, Growth, and Scholarship Committee, I encourage you to reach out and share your ideas and interests. Together, we will collaborate with our AAMC colleagues to build a vibrant and impactful Community of Practice. I am thrilled that we have such a dedicated group committed to advancing growth, scholarship, and engagement in support of student access, success, opportunity, and retention in medical education!
Thank you,
Tanja K. Adonizio, MD
REGS Committee Chair