The emerging perennials in our gardens not only signal the coming of spring but also our annual convention. Each spring promises new hope and energy just as the installation of new officers brings new life and ideas to our organization. I hope that many of you will plan on attending the convention in Knoxville on April 27-28 to support TMAA and the new leadership under the very capable hands of Lisa St. Charles.
This year has been challenging as I undertook the goal of “Building a Healthy Future” for TMAA. Alliances across the country are all facing obstacles by our changing demographics and lifestyles which affect the way we operate. However, our mission remains as viable and important now as it did when our alliance was established nearly one hundred years ago. Finding new ways to connect with our membership and to provide learning opportunities are significant ways to support physician families.
The new website and interactive platform developed by Cynthia Gash rolled out this year and provides a means to connect with other members across the state as well as keep abreast of TMAA activities. We continued the Lunch and Learn Series with very informative sessions. TMAA member Dr. Stacey McKenzie Means spoke on Hepatitis C in Tennessee and how it affects our communities. Dr. Elise Denneny, past TMA president, and Joey Alongi, TMA Grassroots and Legislative Specialist, addressed the legislative process and current priorities in the legislature.
We examined our finances this year to ensure security for the future. TMAA operating accounts are healthy and have benefitted from the market gains this past year. The Board of Directors requested that our Philanthropic Board consider our current grant program and recommend a plan for the fund’s sustainability. We also reviewed our annual budget to look for cost cuts to eliminate deficit budget planning. These reductions will bring some changes to operations, but hopefully for the better.
I want to take the opportunity to thank you for your support over the past year. It has been an honor to serve TMAA and I hope I have made a positive impact that will carry the organization forward.
Kelly Maxwell | President 2024-2025
