I want to welcome everyone to a new academic year, and we are excited to welcome a brand new class of residents. I’m thrilled to take over this year as EMRAF president, and I want to thank Misty for the work that she did last year. I’m grateful that she is maintaining her involvement and I want to encourage you to join us.

We have 18 residency programs in Florida. That gives us the potential to be one of the most influential state chapters of EMRA, but we need you to get involved. I want to encourage you to think about what most interests you in emergency medicine, and I want you to incorporate that into leadership within our state chapter. In an effort to make it easier for you, we have developed regional sections since Florida is so spread out. Also, we have developed committees in areas such as EMS and pediatrics. However, the key element of developing an effective organization is the participation of its members.

The following are some of the benefits you will experience by getting involved:

• Work face to face with the leading voices in emergency medicine on the state and national level
• Obtain a leadership position and work on projects that will advance your career and make you a more competitive job applicant
• Attend fun conferences and develop new friendships

If you have an idea that you would like to propose or if you desire to get involved, please email me at mbeattie221@gmail.com. You can expect more frequent communication on upcoming meetings, conferences and leadership opportunities. ■

Outgoing President’s Message

It’s hard to believe a year has gone by! First of all, I want to thank everyone for their incredible support and giving me the opportunity to serve as your EMRAF president. It has truly been an honor. As an incoming intern, I had big dreams and goals for our EMRAF committee. I am enthralled to pass over the leadership to a great colleague, Dr. Matthew Beattie, who I know will continue with the vision and expansion of EMRAF. Dr. Matthew Beattie is a senior resident at USF and has been an active member of EMRAF during my tenure. I look forward to help him achieve the growth and development that is coming over to EMRAF.

This year, during our most recent meeting that took place at Symposium by the Sea, I was pleased to announce our expansion of EMRAF. The executive board has been expanded and subdivided into geographical regions North, Central, West and South. Those interested in applying or learning more can refer to the “call for council members” announcement on page 27. These positions serve the purpose to unite our residencies by regions and do not replace the roles of the EMRAF representatives. As we grow in numbers of residencies and members, this type of expansion allows us to identify local needs and empower each one of you in the field of emergency medicine.

Last but not least, a special thank you for all of those who made possible the creation, and those who participated in this year’s new resident competition, SonoRace. ■