With all of the new pressures and commitments
associated with any new position, involvement in
a professional organization probably doesn’t resonate
high on the to-do list. But it should. What
turns out to be a small investment in time, can
transform into a valuable investment throughout
the years. According to David R. Witmer,
Pharm.D. and Vice President of Member Services
for ASHP, “you can derive the greatest benefit
by not just joining a community, but by becoming
actively involved in its activities.”
Pharmacy organizations exist to serve the profession.
Any organization’s success depends on
the commitment of its members to serve and
be change-agents vital to its continued success.
As an example, ASHP changed its membership
structure in response to the needs and requests
of its members. Our own NJSHP exists to serve
health-system pharmacy practitioners on the
state and local level. |
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It’s here where the individual
can have the fastest and most impact. It’s also here, the state and local level, where issues
related to the profession will have the most impact
on YOU!
Where’s the right opportunity for you? In my
experience, and without stepping upon the proverbial
“soapbox,” I’ve found that there are many
ways to start. Through participation at regional
meetings, educational sessions, quarterly student
meetings, as a mentor, or among the valuable
network of pharmacists, students, and technicians,
you can easily bring a new idea, process
or experience to the forefront. NJSHP has enjoyed
solid leadership throughout the years and
these leaders are always available to help and
guide. Even the simple words “Can I help out
with this…” will quickly put you on the road to
greater involvement.
From a personal perspective, I can absolutely
assure that getting and staying involved with
NJSHP has been invaluable to me. |
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I’ve been fortunate to be the President-Elect and President of the Student chapter. I’ve had many chances
to contribute directly including assisting in the
development of the 2004 Annual Meeting, planning
and participating in the annual Student
chapter Halloween visit to the Children’s Hospital
at St. Peter’s University Hospital, and serving
as a judge for the 2007 NJSHP College Bowl. In
addition to having had many opportunities I’ve
been a recipient of good advice and friendships
from both current and past NJSHP presidents
and board members.
John A. Gans, Pharm.D. APhA, Executive Vice
President and CEO in Pharmacy Today,(March
2007) states “We must take it upon ourselves to
raise society’s awareness of pharmacists’ capabilities.
To succeed, pharmacists must be leaders in
their practices, the classroom, and our communities.”
Maximize your NJSHP experience and really get
involved…no effort is too little! |