Michael Cornelison, DPM, FACFAS
ACFAS President
When I think of the things that have made my career as fulfilling as it has been, one that immediately comes to mind is my ACFAS membership. Aside from allowing me to continuously stay on the cutting edge of foot and ankle surgical knowledge through its educational offerings, my membership has also facilitated my ability to stay connected with classmates, colleagues, and mentors alike, and has been the basis for forging countless new connections. Such are the benefits of simply being a member, but ACFAS’s volunteer community presents you with opportunities for so much more.
Personally, my participation in ACFAS committees and the Board has significantly broadened my career. It has broken up the repetition of my daily clinical routine, expanded my personal professional interactions, and kept me dialed in to the forefront issues of our specialty. It has invigorated my career.
I would venture to say that those who have volunteered for the College in any capacity feel the same way. I encourage you to consider how participating in ACFAS may positively impact your own professional experience. Here are some of the ways you can participate:
Volunteer for ACFAS Committees
The College’s 11 committees and task forces are the backbone of ACFAS’ governance, as guided by its strategic compass.
Some committees are focused on the College’s continuing education: Education/ Scientific Affairs, Surgical Skills, Practice Management, and Annual Scientific Conference Committee. Those focused on training include the Post Graduate Affairs and Fellowship Committees. The Council for Journal Management and Research Committee focus on the College’s role in scholarly research. And those focused on optimizing the provision of resources to the College’s members, including interaction with government, the healthcare community, and the public are the Consumer Education, Health Policy and Membership Committee. Visit acfas.org/get-involved/volunteer-opportunities for descriptions of each of these committees.
Apply to be an Instructor
The College’s educational program committees develop the specialty’s most respected CME curriculum, including the Annual Scientific Conference, hands-on surgical skills courses, and single-topic seminars including practice management and regional symposia. They also develop content for podcasts, e-books, and other e-learning tools. ACFAS always seeks to diversify its faculty with new instructors who possess the expertise and experience needed to maintain the College’s high standards and attendee expectations.
Participate in Regional Leadership
The College’s nine Regions give members the ability to connect locally through seminars, meetings, and labs. Regions also provide outreach to students and residents through scholarships and grants. ACFAS invites all members to get involved in their local Regions and support the profession at the grassroots level.
You can also submit scientific manuscripts to our Journals, posters, or abstracts for presentation at the Annual Scientific Conference, complete the College’s surveys, or contact ACFAS with a question or concern.
The existence of ACFAS is dependent on one thing: its membership. Its success and effectiveness hinge on being able to tap into the talents and experience of its members. Consider sharing yours with fellow members by getting involved with the College. Visit acfas.org to find out more. Chances are it will pay dividends in enriching your practice as it has for so many volunteers over the years.