alabama · web viewarchive of state leader spotlights presented in alphabetical order by state...

Archive of State Leader Spotlights

Presented in alphabetical order by state

AlabamaSamantha Steipp, CMA (AAMA), AAS

2018–2019 Alabama Society of Medical Assistants (ASMA) President

What have you done to make yourself approachable to new members of your state society?

As president of the ASMA [Alabama Society of Medical Assistants], I make sure to socialize with everyone at our state conference. I encourage them to come to our state board meetings and to attend their local chapter meetings. I also traveled with our vice president to some colleges during Medical

Assistants Recognition Week [MARWeek] to meet students.

How have the people in your life helped you become the leader you are today?

I never knew that I wanted to be a leader until I began the medical assisting program at Wallace State Community College. I discovered who I am, and my instructors were so encouraging to me. They made me believe I can do anything I set my mind to by working hard.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your AAMA volunteer leadership experience?

Helping others find their own path as a CMA (AAMA). I do this by informing them of job openings or answering any questions I can. Another rewarding aspect is networking with other members at the state and national conferences.

AlaskaAndria Cross, CMA (AAMA), BS, PBT(ASCP)

2018–2019 Alaska Medical Assistant Society (AKMAS) President


I have been so fortunate to work with the members and leadership team of the Alaska Medical Assisting Society (AKMAS) and the Anchorage Chapter of Medical Assistants who have guided me each step along the way as state president of AKMAS. We have had many recent accomplishments, such as obtaining the 2018 Excel Award for the newest members and successfully organizing the Forget-Me-Not Food Drive for the Food Bank of Alaska. I truly value the collaborative spirit that exists in our local Anchorage chapter and Alaska state society.

How did someone, such as a mentor, influence you to take a leadership role?

AKMAS and the Anchorage Chapter of Medical Assistants have a legacy of premiere leadership. Several of the current members have been in various leadership roles for twenty or more years. Their scope of knowledge about the AAMA and our profession have motivated me to follow in their footsteps as I hope to inspire other CMAs (AAMA) to become more involved in our wonderful organization.

What is one characteristic you believe all leaders should possess?

A positive attitude. I have been shown so much positivity and optimism since being a member of the AAMA and AKMAS that I am inspired to return that energy to our established and incoming members. After all, a smile is contagious!

ArizonaMary Dockall, CMA (AAMA)2013–2019 Arizona State Society of Medical Assistants (ASSMA) President


I believe that honesty and self-respect are the two most important things one can have. I believe these two go hand in hand—without one, you cannot have the other.


Networking and learning what the other states do to increase membership.


I have always had an open-door approach: available to all to answer questions and help in any way I can.

ColoradoChris Hollander, CMA (AAMA)

2012–2019 Colorado Society of Medical Assistants (CSMA) President

What is the one characteristic you believe all leaders should possess?

Diligence: Showing the most earnest and energetic effort in preserving the integrity of our profession while giving steady attention to the growth in the awareness of medical assisting throughout our communities. As a leader you must believe what you are doing is for the good of all medical assistants and their future.


My most awarding aspect is the tremendous support of medical assistants coming together to make a change in how other health professionals view what we do as a practitioner and educator. We live in an ever-changing society, and the ability to witness and assist in our change is simply inspiring to continue to be involved and stay involved in all areas of medical assisting.

What advice would you give to a new leader?

Be true to yourself, believe what you say, and do the best to achieve your goals. Enjoy your role and always look ahead by reviewing the past [so you can] do your best work. Learn from your mistakes to achieve your dreams and always think before you react. Be that person you always looked up to and be proud of the person you have become.

ConnecticutRebecca Rivera, CMA (AAMA)

2018–2019 Connecticut Society of Medical Assistants (CSMA) President


A leader should be an active listener. When close attention is paid to the ideas, concerns, collaborative input, and constructive feedback of others, learning occurs. The information derived from team members is informative to leadership, prepares for a pathway of excellent communication, and keeps members engaged and encouraged to participate.


The best advice [is] to remove fear from the equation. It is important not to be fearful of asking for help and direction. Stay positive and focused on the vision ahead. It is through experience, collaboration, knowledge, and the sustenance of fellow colleagues that a leader can truly flourish.


I’ve made it a priority to intermingle and communicate with everyone. I believe in unity and team collaboration. It is imperative for me to get to know as many members as possible so that each member feels comfortable in approaching me with feedback, concerns, or new ideas. As a leader, I plan to work inclusively and grow professionally alongside my team and fellow members of this association.

FloridaMarsha Benedict, CMA-A (AAMA), MSA

2018–2019 Florida Society of Medical Assistants (FSMA) President


I have been influenced by many chapter, state, and national leaders throughout the years. Notably, one leader helped me by inviting me to get involved in each of those levels in a new leadership role. I was taken under the wing of a leader

who gradually offered positions that were not overwhelming or over my head at the time. I was given a chance to learn the position and stay in that position long enough to succeed. Sometimes the first year is a learning process.

What has been the best advice given to you by a mentor or another AAMA member?

Many times, as seasoned leaders, we overwhelm our new leaders by being overzealous. My mentors and friends of the AAMA advised me to remember that new leaders are in a learning process. Give them a task that they can handle and check in on them periodically to see if they need any guidance. Do not take over their job, but ask them in a way that encourages them to ask for help if needed. Always remember, new ideas may not be your way but a different way of doing things.

Is there anything unique or different that you do when mentoring a new member or leader in your state society?

Many times, new leaders need guidelines, policies, and procedures along with assistance until they can take over on their own. The worst mistake that leaders make is expecting too much in the beginning and causing our new leaders to feel like they failed. Share a description of the position you feel would be one that a member would excel in and let them digest the content. Introduce them to a member who has held that position and allow them to be mentored and guided.

GeorgiaCaroline (Lisa) Morrison, CMA (AAMA), AAS

2018–2019 Georgia Society of Medical Assistants (GSMA) President


Put your personal feelings aside; you’re not going to be able to make everyone happy. You are there to put your chapter and/or society first. You are there to help manage the chapter/society, do what is best for it, and adhere to the majority rule.

What has been the best advice given to you by a mentor or another AAMA leader?

“Look it up.” When in question, always refer to your bylaws or standing rules. Most of the time the answer you are looking for is in there, and it will help you become more familiar with it. If you don’t find it there, then ask an officer.


They have helped me by listening and helping me wade through all the noise and pinpoint the real issue at hand, regardless of the situation.

IndianaJane Seelig, CMA-A (AAMA)

2018–2019 Indiana Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA) President


Communication: auditory, visual, and verbal—in that order. Listen and make notes of the various issues. Lead the discussion without prejudice. Repeat what you hear to confirm the communication received was the communication that was sent. The only wrong question was the one that was not asked. Present the issue with a neutral approach and tone. Solicit input from all who wish to participate and especially from those who look as if they want to participate but are hesitant. Listen, watch, invite!


Personal growth, networking, and travel—my personal leadership journey was unusual to say the least. I joined the AAMA to take advantage of a reduced registration fee for members. It was exciting to visit with and learn from members throughout the state, so I asked a lot of questions. From there I was on the leadership fast track in my chapter, then on the state level, and I volunteered for national committees.

… I was able to visit and explore many cities and even participate in other state conferences. … Longtime friendships were built. … There are many stories to tell of how important the AAMA has been to my personal development, growth, and happiness today.


Time management. Do not abuse others’ time by being late or by arriving to a meeting unprepared or disorganized. AAMA, state, and local activities are not the only activities that make demands on our time. We have family, employment, volunteer or religious participation, and most important, personal well-being. … To neglect one at the expense of another is a disservice to our mental and emotional health. ... Involving others is the bonus benefit as it encourages their growth.

MarylandLisa Strauss, CMA (AAMA), BS

2018–2019 Maryland Society of Medical Assistants President


It is important to be a role model for your members. To be a role model, be available for your members, advocate for the profession, encourage CMAs (AAMA) to get involved in volunteering, and be a good listener.


I really value volunteering on the state and national level. I have learned a lot from other volunteers who I have served with. It makes me proud to be a CMA (AAMA). My volunteer activities span from chapter, state, and national roles. Volunteer leadership has made me a better CMA (AAMA).


It is difficult to get members to step up to volunteer because they don’t think they are qualified. This year we will be mentoring any member who wants to take the next step toward volunteering.

MassachusettsDawn Geraldine Jordan, CMA (AAMA), RMA, AS, JP

2006–2019 Massachusetts State Society of Medical Assistants (MSMA) President


Believe in yourself. Believe in the cause and the members you serve. Be there for them and be able to answer their questions or concerns to the best of your ability. Make sure you have a great support team to help you.

How do you encourage and inspire others to take active roles?

Convince people to take an active role by joining a committee to get their feet wet or by coming to an executive board meeting to learn what our organization/state does. Once they feel comfortable, have them try a secretary position or even do something on their chapter level. I tell them, “I am here for you, and I will not let you fail. I will be here to answer any of your questions.”


My parents instilled good values in me and to fight for what I believe in. I was very lucky, also, that my dad is a physician here in Worcester. He was very well known, so when I became Worcester District President of the MSMA [Massachusetts Society of Medical Assistants], I was able to get the word out in the community about the CMA (AAMA). I was invited by many drug representatives to come to the meetings, and I started to walk the talk with them. I told them what we were all about and asked them to sponsor meetings for us, and they did. When I became MSMA State President, they followed me and said, “OK Dawn, what can we do for you?” And I said, “Help me to get to doctors and explain to them what we are all about and what we do in their offices,” and they did. So, I am so proud of the things I accomplished and so grateful to the people in my life. Without them, I wouldn't be who I am today.

MichiganCristle Weissmiller, CMA (AAMA), CHCO

2018–2019 Michigan Society of Medical Assistants (MSMA) President


Any strong leader must have the ability to be a good listener and observer. Until a problem is truly understood, solutions cannot be determined. This means the leader must pay attention to what is said, what is left unsaid, body language, the tone of a conversation, and more.


I inspire others by diving in headfirst myself. I’m willing to do the hard work with the board of directors, committees, and members. I have no problem wearing a silly costume to spark interest. I enjoy doing whatever it takes to get our members excited and involved.


When you start to feel overwhelmed, just remember that you’re not in this alone. We are all working together as a team, and everyone is rooting for your success. Don’t be shy about reaching out for help when you need it.

MinnesotaDawn L. Verdon, CMA (AAMA), MS, AHI

2018–2019 Minnesota Society of Medical Assistants (MSMA) President


Meeting new people at the state and national conferences has been very rewarding. I always encourage members to be proud of and proactive in their role as a CMA (AAMA) in the workplace and to become involved in their regional and state chapters.


A couple of longtime board members from MSMA [Minnesota Society of Medical Assistants] encouraged me to run for president. I was on the state

board as a committee chair. They have been very available, helpful, and supportive whenever I have had questions. It is an honor to represent CMAs (AAMA) for the state of Minnesota.


The president-elect and I wrote welcome letters when we took office to post on our website, so others would know more about us. I provided my email to members and try to answer emails or phone calls promptly. I attend our state conferences and visit with members and nonmembers.

MissouriRachel Clifford, CMA (AAMA)

2018–2019 Missouri Society of Medical Assistants (MSMA) President


Each leader should always possess an open mind—for ideas, for growth, for problem-solving without bias or personal judgment that could inhibit the growth of the state society, the national organization, and the medical assistant profession.

What is one thing you’ve done as a leader that you would do differently?

Be prepared. I came into the MSMA with no knowledge of the society or had relationships with any other member. My first MSMA meeting was 12 people, and they needed a secretary/treasurer, and no other person volunteered. So, I did, and it’s been a learning curve ever since.


I created the MSMA Facebook page and a Gmail account for just the MSMA, so when I am no longer the president, the next officer will have the means to communicate with members besides email.

New HampshireLinda Prince, CMA (AAMA), COA, OCT-C

2018–2019 New Hampshire State Society of Medical Assistants (NHSMA) President


I believe all leaders should cultivate the ability to find what people do best and find a way to use that within the confines of the group. Everyone has something they enjoy and excel at. Finding out how to use and encourage that talent is one of the most useful traits for a leader.


I have learned that I can be a leader even though I am more of a quiet, lead-by-example [sort of leader]. I take pride in the growth and achievements of people that work with and for me both with the NHSMA and in my work environment. It is startling to realize I helped in the amazing growth of many of those around me.


Try to remember that not everyone works the same way you do. That does not negate their talents or the contributions they can provide. Leadership and mentoring are helping others to grow outside their comfort zone but respecting the limits they want to live by.

New JerseyTerry Silvia, CMA (AAMA), MS

2012–2019 New Jersey Society of Medical Assistants (NJSMA) President

What is the one characteristic you believe that all leaders should possess?

I think leaders should inspire others. Our Medical Director has a saying, “It takes the team to make the dream,” and she’s right! I try to be an inspiration not only to the people I see every day but also to the potential new members I encounter at each and every opportunity.


Joanne Calabrese, AAS, CMA-AC (AAMA), was my mentor. She was intelligent, a fast and independent thinker, and knew Bylaws by heart; Joanne lit up a room

when she spoke. As a new member, Joanne astonished me with all she knew about the society, and I was eager to learn. Soon I discovered she had a plan for me …


I grew up in a volunteering family. My parents were active in the church, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts. They showed me that giving of one’s time was important to balance our lives. I too became a Scout leader, life member of the Ambulance Corps, active at church, and joined the AAMA; who knows what’s next?

New YorkDavid Sylvia, CMA (AAMA), BBA

2018–2019 New York State Society of Medical Assistants President


All leaders should possess the ability to lead by example as a positive role model and never ask anything of anyone that you would not take on yourself. Advocate for members, the profession, CMAs (AAMA), and medical assisting students.


Becoming something bigger than myself, giving back to the community that helped shape who I am, and doing meaningful work while making a difference in the lives of the people I meet has been the most rewarding aspect of my AAMA volunteer leadership experience.


I share my own story and encourage volunteerism. I reassure them that we are surrounded by seasoned mentors who are happy to assist the next generation of volunteer leaders and that a passion for the profession is all the qualification required.

North CarolinaAmber Greer, BS, CMA (AAMA)

2018–2019 North Carolina Society of Medical Assistants (NCSMA) President


Two of my biggest mentors are a source of teaching, support, and wisdom. They have both shared with me information on their journey through the NCSMA and AAMA and have provided guidance when I was not sure of the path that I wanted to take and motivation when I wanted to step away. They

have helped guide and direct me without criticizing every step. Above all, I know that they’ll listen and give support when I need it. These mentors encouraged me to step up and told me that I could make a difference in the NCSMA and that my voice mattered.


In our society, we implemented the use of cochairs for all our committees. We will have a member who has notable experience paired with a member who may be newer to that specific committee. In doing this, the newer member has an opportunity to work and learn from the member with more experience. The following year, we rotate off the original member with more experience and add a newer member to the committee to be mentored.

OhioNatasha M. Geno, CMA (AAMA)2018–2019 Ohio State Society of Medical Assistants (OSSMA) President


Integrity. It demands truthfulness and honesty. Organizations are successful when leaders have integrity because they will do the right thing even if no one is watching. They do the right thing individually, for their colleagues, for their patients, and for the profession. Having integrity is so important that it is a core mission to our profession and why we have to take an ethics class on “doing the right thing.”


The personal growth I have made by being a part of the AAMA organization. I came from a modest upbringing, and this organization has given me various opportunities for growth. It is fulfilling to be able to share my journey … and accomplishments with others that I meet through the organization.

How do you encourage and inspire others to take on an active role?

By having the ability to persuade your colleagues to follow. You need to be able to set a good example so that your colleagues will be inspired and want to follow you. When the going gets tough, they look to you and see how you react to the situation. If you can handle the situation, people will follow you, especially if you are setting a good example. That is how I became involved.

OklahomaBillie Acree, CMA (AAMA)2016–2019 Oklahoma Society of Medical Assistants President


How to delegate responsibility to other medical assistants on your local board of trustees.


By being supportive of their ideas and encouraging them with email and telephone calls. I try to back them and help them as needed.


Don’t quit! Members of the AAMA have truly been an encouragement to me by always stepping up and showing their support of Oklahoma. I consider my AAMA friends as part of my family; I love all of them.

OregonKathy Puckett, CMA (AAMA)

2018–2019 Oregon Society of Medical Assistants (OSMA) President


The best advice I was given by a mentor was to not sweat the small stuff. As you become a leader at any level, it is easy to worry about everything and everyone. You can only do your best and offer help to your team so that they can do their best too. Little details usually work themselves out, so don’t worry about the little things. Focus your attention on the big picture, and everything else will fall into place.

What have you done to make yourself more approachable to new members of your state society?

To make myself more approachable to new members, I try to put myself in their shoes. I approach new faces with a smile and a welcome. I let them know that their opinions matter, and as a leader, I encourage their participation. I make myself available when a new member or leader needs help or guidance, even if it is just listening or being present to encourage their participation.


My advice to a new leader is the lead by example. Teach others by being a good leader and by making yourself available to new members and others that need help or encouragement. Show that you care through kindness. Remember that we are all volunteers and choose your words carefully when giving advice. Remember— “Kind words are like honey: sweet to your soul.”

South CarolinaDeborah White, CMA (AAMA), MS

2018–2019 South Carolina Society of Medical Assistants (SCSMA) President


Diplomacy. Leaders must tactfully work with all members of the society. A good leader should promote the advancement of the entire group (state society or local chapter), not just the special interests of one entity.


Everyone is a novice at one point: students, employees, committee members, committee chairs, and officers. Show compassion; you know how they feel. Be the person that offers assistance and exchange contact information. Most importantly, thank them for coming, participating, and being an important member of the group.

What is one thing you’ve done as a leader that you would do differently?

Not wait 25-plus years. An office on the chapter level prepares you for the next step. As an educator and state president, the reactions from students are priceless. They ask, “Could they be president one day?” Of course, they can. Three of my past graduates have held the office of SC president, and the fourth is my VP. Seeds were planted, and they blossomed.

South DakotaErica Arends, CMA (AAMA)

2015–2019 South Dakota Society of Medical Assistants (SDSMA) President


New leaders should have tenacity. They should have the ability to get their hands dirty and make changes. There is always resistance to change, even if it is for the better, but in order to make changes, you have to be persistent and have a solid basis for your ideas.


The overall experience! Learning how to plan a state conference, each intricate detail, and getting member input on how they would like the organization to run. Also, attending national conferences has been incredible.


New leaders should definitely use the old leaders. They have a knowledge base that is unsurpassed. Why reinvent the wheel? Our senior leaders have experience, know why things are the way they are and have also tried new ideas. They are also there to support your ideas.

TennesseeDawn Alter, CMA (AAMA), AAS

2018–2019 Tennessee Society of Medical Assistants (TNSMA) Vice President


Being open to new ideas for change. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the way things have “always” been done that we are unwilling to consider new ideas. If someone has a new idea, listen. It may not be a perfect idea initially, but with some brainstorming, it may be a change that benefits everyone.


Don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how insignificant they seem. You won’t know the answer for sure until you ask an experienced leader. Also, don’t be afraid to try new ideas. As a new leader, you may have ideas no one has thought of, and they may be hugely successful.


I didn’t have the confidence in myself to take on a leadership role, but I have two mentors who saw my potential and encouraged me to take on a greater leadership role than I had in the past. They committed to meeting with me, educating me, and answering any questions, and they have kept that commitment.

TexasLaTonya Jones, CMA (AAMA), BS, CPC, CPT 2018–2019 Texas Society of Medical Assistants President


Flexibility and adaptability. I feel that all leaders should be flexible and have the ability to adapt to changes, problems, and adversity. In our profession,

things are forever evolving, so having the ability to roll with the punches is an invaluable characteristic for a leader to have.


They have really stood by me during the storm, literally (Harvey), they have encouraged me, called me out when I was wrong, and most importantly they have never allowed me to lose sight of our goals and purpose. We all love our profession, and in the end, making sure that we can continue to practice our craft is our No. 1 goal; everyone here shares this passion.


I would say keep listening, learning, and pushing through the rough times. Nothing worth having will come to you easy; and trust me, being a leader takes all three, plus you will need the patience of Job.

UtahSherri Swan-McMillan, CMA (AAMA)

2018–2019 Utah State Society of Medical Assistants (USSMA) President


Genuine caring is vital to be an effective leader! When you truly care about an organization, you put the needed time and energy into making it run smoothly and progress. Yet the most important caring is for the individual. People are the greatest asset to any group. As we reach out to others with warmth, they feel welcome. As we really listen, they feel validated. As we use their ideas, they feel valued. As we keep an open mind, we invite “outside the box” thinking and sharing as we build friendships and strengthen our chapters. It truly is all about the people!


By far it has been the association with amazing people! It has been wonderful to get to know others across my state as well as across the country. Each brings a unique perspective to being an active CMA (AAMA) as we share ideas and experiences. This interaction always makes me a better person!


The first thing we do is invite everyone to our conferences. The next thing is to invite them to our monthly board meetings where we get to know them better as we listen to their ideas, letting them know we value their input and suggestions. Then we ask them to be board members at large, and they are usually hooked as they see what a great organization this is, how good our conferences are, and how much fun we have!

VirginiaNina Beaman, CMA (AAMA), RN, BC

2018–2019 Virginia Society of Medical Assistants (VSMA) President

What has been the best advice given to you by a mentor or another AAMA member?

Joyce Hardee, CMA (AAMA), reminded me that we choose what to fill out minds with. … Focus on the good!


Find a mentor you admire and feel a connection with, ask that person to mentor you, and make a regular appointment with that person to discuss your career. I look forward to my monthly meeting with mine. I also thank my mentor often for the opportunity to meet with her.


The best part of being a volunteer leader is meeting diverse people in the AAMA. They may think differently, solve problems in a more novel way, or innovate creatively. Mostly, they bring joy, service, and new learning into your life. Be open to change and growth!

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