2007 International Physiology Committee Report
The International Committee of the APS has worked throughout the past
year to develop strategies to enhance participation of international APS
members in the activities of the Society. Active member participation in the
activities of APS is necessary for the Society’s growth and development. In
particular, active engagement of the international membership is critical in
order to achieve the vision developed by the strategic plan in becoming a
more diverse society.
Participation was encouraged this year by urging self nomination for
membership in the International Committee among our international members.
This was a successful campaign that resulted in numerous self-nominations
and an active recruitment of candidates for membership in the Committee. In
addition, the composition of our Committee was enhanced by the addition of a
trainee representative, Dr. Christian Ochoa.
Through the Latin American Initiative, APS provided support for three
symposia in Latin America, which were successful in providing a much needed
enrichment of Latin American physiologists, including students, and
fostering collaborative ties with several institutions south of the border.
This program, which provides support for didactic or scientific symposia in
Latin America, is an excellent opportunity for our Society to share talents
and resources with colleagues in Latin America. APS members are encouraged
to apply for this funding mechanism.
The International Committee has continued to urge Council and the APS
leadership to develop mechanisms that will enhance international
participation in APS activities, particularly through inclusion of
international scientists in section-sponsored symposia. This initiative has
gained considerable support and new and exciting opportunities are in
discussion to ensure that symposia become more inclusive of our
international members. A new initiative, that will be launched this fall,
will be a newsletter targeted at international members to help stimulate
their interest in becoming active members of our Society. That mechanism is
likely to be the most successful in their integration into the Society’s
overall activities. Finally, let me take this opportunity to urge you to
become an ambassador for our society by reaching out to make the experience
of visiting international members and their integration during the EB
meeting a memorable experience.
Patricia E. Molina, Chair
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