Junior Director Reflects on Foundation Board Experience

As my time on the CAP Foundation Board of Directors comes to an end, I’d encourage any CAP Junior Member who wants to learn more about nonprofit work, make lasting connections in the field, or simply help the specialty to apply for this position before the October 31, 2024, deadline.

Serving on the CAP Foundation Board has been an invaluable experience, providing me with a unique platform to engage with an incredible group of individuals, each bringing their expertise, perspectives, and passion to the table. The collaborative environment has not only enriched my understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our field but has also allowed me to contribute to meaningful discussions and decisions that shape the future of our organization.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Junior Member Director role is the opportunity to build connections with fellow Board member directors and other stakeholders. These relationships have proven to be instrumental in my career, offering mentorship, support, and a network of professionals who share a common goal of advancing the field of pathology.

Additionally, working within the Foundation’s role as the philanthropic arm of the College of American Pathologists–providing quality care to under-served communities, connecting pathologists to patients in need through the See, Test & Treat® program, and furthering and promoting the education, advance training and research scholarships, grants, and awards–has provided me with the unique opportunity to see the direct, immediate, and long-term, benefits that our actions and decisions provide. This experience has been truly inspiring and motivating, and it is something that I can be grateful for and proud of for life.

From a very practical standpoint, learning more about finance and budgeting on a large scale has been illuminating. Finally, serving on the CAP Foundation Board provided me with a deeper appreciation for the impact that strategic leadership can have on our profession. It reinforced the importance of being actively involved in shaping the direction of our field, increasing the visibility of pathologists and the field of pathology, and advocating for initiatives that support our members and the communities we serve.

The sense of accomplishment that comes from contributing to the advancement of our profession is unparalleled, and it is a feeling of pride and fulfillment that I wish for all of you.

As the application deadline for the CAP Foundation Junior Member Director approaches, I encourage everyone eligible to consider this opportunity. It is a chance to make a lasting impact, to grow both personally and professionally, and to be a part of a team dedicated to building the future of our field.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our profession. Your contributions are invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for your commitment. I look forward to seeing the incredible contributions the next generation of leaders will bring to our organization.

Best,
Masa Peric, MD