Vidya Sundareshan, MD, MPH, FACP, ACP Governor, Illinois Southern
As an internal medicine resident at SIU School of Medicine in 2006, we, as the outgoing third-year internal medicine class, get to attend the ACP national meeting. It's a tradition the department of medicine still carries on.
I was 33 weeks pregnant and did not want to miss this opportunity. As my classmates finished attending a few sessions during the day and went out to enjoy Philadelphia in the evening, I stayed for the convocation, where a 27-year-old physician was named as the youngest fellow of the ACP that year. I saw many inspiring people in medicine getting felicitated, including my mentors, Dr. Susan Hingle and Dr. David Steward receive national awards.
I heard every word from the president and chair of the board of regents who spoke magnificently. I took part in reciting the oath which was read by the new fellows. The whole atmosphere at the convocation was energizing. Celebrating people who have devoted their lives to a career in medicine, celebrating medicine and also giving thanks to everybody who has helped us get here- a reminder again for all of us as to why we do what we do, despite many challenges as we strive to do our best to take care of our patients.
After the convocation, my mentor welcomed me to join the reception. Attending an event of that scale as a resident seemed intimidating, but I cannot forget how welcome I felt, even as a trainee. What I noticed was, that everyone was kind, and down to earth, despite having achieved the highest pinnacles in their careers. That to me was most important and memorable. A professional home, which to this date gives me a great sense of belonging and comfort.
After I had completed my fellowship, I remember going to Dr. Susan Hingle's office, asking her if there are any opportunities for me to be involved with ACP. She connected me immediately with Dr. Janet Jokela, the governor of Illinois South, also an Infectious diseases physician and leader. Without any hesitation, Dr. Jokela took me under her wings, and continues to mentor me.
Dr. Graumlich, and Dr. Lawrence, are other exceptional leaders I was able to work with as part of the council, and other chapter committees in ACP. I got a chance to lead the education committee which was a great way to collaborate with members of Northern Illinois.
Six years ago, I received an email from Dr. Jokela asking if I would consider running for Governor for Illinois South. An international medical graduate, who loves being involved and brings curiosity and enthusiasm, that is all I had on my ACP resume. I did not consider myself qualified at all for the role. Dr. Jokela sensed my doubts and followed up with a phone call. After a discussion with both my mentors Dr. Hingle and Dr. Jokela, I felt reassured that I can do this with their guidance and support. So I stood on the sturdy shoulders of these giants in our chapter and national ACP, with confidence to do my best.
Being governor of Illinois South for the last four years has been the highlight of my career. I have seen closely how much of an impact this professional organization can have in our lives. The educational opportunities, service, advocacy, networking opportunities are priceless. Being involved with the ACP in various capacities, helps us meet so many exceptional people worldwide and stay inspired. These collaborations and associations allow us to grow personally and professionally. The organization gives us power and strength to advocate for our patients, our colleagues, ourselves, and our profession. I understood so much about advocacy. I learned so much about different ways to do the right things.
As I complete my term of being governor for Illinois South, I would like to thank each and every one in our chapter for this opportunity. I look forward to the amazing next four years under the governorship of my brilliant friend and colleague, MJ Yadav.
I urge our members to find ways to stay engaged- there are so many things to do at ACP. In Illinois South, we are exceptionally fortunate to have national leaders who are wholeheartedly willing to mentor. As we face new and old challenges in our profession, as we take care of our patients, having a community is critically important. ACP provides that security and a nurturing community for all of us at every stage of our careers.
I want to give a special shout-out to our wonderful executive director, Colleen Keeku, who keeps us all on track with communication and has helped our council and committees to maintain a gold level of recognition from ACP National. I also want to thank my department chair Dr. John Flack and my institution that believe in the importance of community and encourage all Internal Medicine specialists to stay connected and stay engaged.
Thank you to all our members for your engagement and contributions as we together celebrate our chapter's successes. With sincere gratitude, I hope to see many of you at Leadership Day next week and the ACP IL Chapter Meeting on October 3rd in Oak Brook.
-Vidya Sundareshan, MD FACP
