The American Pediatric Society (APS) recently announced 55 new members, including Mara Becker, MD, MSCE, associate professor of pediatrics (Rheumatology), Eliana Perrin, MD, MPH, professor of pediatrics (Primary Care) and P. Brian Smith, MD, MPH, MHS, professor of pediatrics (Neonatology, Quantitative Sciences). Founded in 1888, the APS is the first and most prestigious academic pediatric organization in North America. New members will be recognized during the APS Presidential Plenary on May 3 at the Pediatric Academic Societies 2021 Virtual Meeting.
APS members are recognized child health leaders of extraordinary achievement who work together to shape the future of academic pediatrics. New members are nominated by current members through a process that recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves as child health leaders, teachers, scholars, policymakers and/or clinicians.
"Our members represent the most distinguished and accomplished academic leaders in pediatrics whose outstanding work has advanced child health," said APS President Steven Abman, MD. "I am honored to welcome this exceptional group of individuals to the APS. The APS is especially looking forward to the active engagement of our membership with many exciting programs within the organization that are directed towards improvements in academic pediatric medicine, including more vigorous approaches to express our values of anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion."
Some benefits of APS membership include:
- Recognition and acknowledgement as a leader in pediatrics: APS members include individuals who have distinguished themselves as academic leaders, teachers and researchers whose contributions to academic pediatrics have garnered national and international recognition.
- A network of child health professionals: Membership in APS is dedicated to the advancement of child health through promotion of pediatric research, recognition of achievement, and cultivation of excellence through advocacy, scholarship, education and leadership development.
- Advocacy for child health: In order to speak with one voice on behalf of child health, APS provides representation in Washington, D.C., through the Pediatric Policy Council which combines the advocacy efforts of the APS, the Society for Pediatric Research, the Association of Medical School Pediatric Department Chairs and the Academic Pediatric Association.
APS members are eligible to receive the society's annual awards, including the APS John Howland Award, as well as to participate in the APS Howland Visiting Professor program. For more information about APS membership, please visit the APS website.