Building our future leaders
From the President
By Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, July 1, 2025
Taking care of dermatologists so that they can take care of their patients...and their practices
Dear members,
A strong dermatology specialty requires strong dermatologist leaders. I am extremely proud of the many ways in which the AAD invests in developing the next generation of dermatology leaders, ensuring that our future is in capable hands.
Perhaps the most extensive of these is the Academy’s flagship Leadership Institute, which includes the Leadership Forum. I had the pleasure of attending this year’s forum last month in Itasca, Illinois. The Leadership Forum is a great way for dermatologists who are in the early stages of their careers to learn how to advance to the next stage of their careers. You’ll learn valuable skills to help you develop a more effective leadership style, both in your practice and in other professional settings.
Those who wish to continue to cultivate these skills have opportunities to do so, through the Advanced Leadership Forum that runs concurrently with the Leadership Forum. Designed for both previous Leadership Forum attendees and dermatologists who have over a decade of experience, the Advanced Leadership Forum further develops leadership skills which can then be leveraged in more complex situations.
I have attended many sessions at the Leadership Forum, and they certainly helped guide me toward all of the various leadership roles I’ve had throughout my career, not the least of which is the one I hold right now as your Academy president. I would highly encourage anyone who thinks that leadership of any form might be in their future to apply for the Leadership Forum. Applications are open now!
For members who are interested in academia, the Academy has options as well! The Academic Dermatology Leadership Program is a year-long training program that helps members learn to navigate the unique challenges faced by dermatologists in an academic setting. The program includes a weekend session at the Leadership Forum as well as sessions at both yearly meetings, the Annual Meeting and the Innovation Academy.
Speaking of those meetings, the Academy of course offers educational sessions at both that are open to all members, meaning that if you aren’t sure if you want to fully commit, you are free to attend a leadership session to get a taste of what might be in store for you in the future if that is a path you wish to follow.
I’m proud of how the Academy secures long-term stability, both for itself and its member, by developing future leaders from within. The support I received from the Academy played a key role in getting me to where I am today, and it can do the same for you.
Until next time, all my best,
Susan
Leadership Forum
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