president’s message

American Association of Chairs of Departments of Psychiatry (AACDP)

Peter F. Buckley, M.D.

It is a real privilege for me to assume the position of President of the AACDP. In doing so, I want to acknowledge the mentorship and friendship that I have enjoyed through AACDP over the past 6 years.

The role of chairs of academic Departments of Psychiatry is all encompassing. This has placed a dilemma for AACDP as to where and how to focus its organizational efforts. To this end, and with the leadership of the executive committee, let's begin a discussion about our future priorities and to enlist the support of all AACDP members. Seeing the products of Task Forces will be an example of forward movement. We should also consider another retreat in due course.

It is my privilege to continue to build on the progress made by our former presidents to encourage the involvement of AACDP members and to provide a forum where all Chairs feel that they will benefit from attending and participating in meetings and in being an active member of AACDP.

Major objectives for the next two years include:

Increase administrative leadership and presence of AACDP, as evidenced by enhanced involvement with organizations, particularly AAMC and APA, and with deliverable "products" (e.g. position statements) from AACDP;

Increase advocacy role of AACDP, as evidenced by joint impact of Annapolis Coalition-AACDP task force, with rollout of advocacy activities in our own departments;

Provide leadership in academic-industry collaborations, both with respect to innovation in these collaborations and resolution of potential conflicts of interest;

Provide educational leadership, as evidenced by rollout of Core Competencies from RRC, implementation of changes in ABPN board examinations, and increased neuroscience training in departments;

To achieve increased membership participation through membership-driven topical meetings, rollout of task forces with teleconferences in between meetings, and enhanced social events. I believe that AACDP meetings should be fun and we will make a real effort to put on interesting and fun programs.

We are very fortunate that Lucille Meinsler has been willing to increase her commitment to AACDP. Her support will help us in working efficiently toward the above goals.

I look forward from hearing from you. Please contact me to discuss issues you would like to see AACDP tackle and also to find out how you can participate in future discussions and planning.

I greatly value your leadership and your friendship

Many thanks.

Best wishes,

Peter F. Buckley, MD
Professor and Chairman
Department of Psychiatry
Medical College of Georgia
Email: pbuckley@mail.mcg.edu

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