Highlights of the MSVA Annual Convention

June 2011

The Medical Society of Virginia Alliance (MSVA) held its 89th annual convention at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel in Staunton, Virginia from May 5 - 7. This event was held to feature the Alliance’s accomplishments, discuss current initiatives and present the 2011-2012 officers.

Attendees heard from Krista Crawford-Mathis, Ph.D., outgoing MSVA president, who presided during the beginning of the convention to discuss current business items. She discussed the Drug Take Back Program, a state and national initiative designed to assist with the proper disposal of prescription drugs, as a possibility for an upcoming project for Alliance members in their local communities.

Rufus Phillips, Medical Society of Virginia (MSV) executive vice president, gave an update on the 2011 General Assembly session and MSV’s strategic alignment. He also spoke about opportunities where MSV and MSVA could partner together to work on future projects.

During the convention, attendees took part in leadership development courses held by Stephen Morgan, M.D., Janet Crawford, M.H.A., M.B.A. and Deborah Elward, where they learned more about document management, skills to be a successful leader and dressing for presence.

Outgoing MSVA officers were recognized and presented with achievement awards and incoming officers were elected and welcomed to serve MSVA, which currently has over 680 members. Officers for 2011-2012 are: 

Ellen Morgan of Roanoke, president
Stacy Castro of Arlington, president-elect
Rashmi Pandya of Danville, first vice president of membership
Joan Chang of Chesapeake, regional vice president - eastern region
Dawn Kern of Rockingham, regional vice president - western region
Liesl Delisio of Richmond, regional vice president - central/northern region
Clara Cerniglia of Richmond, recording secretary
Beth Nelson of Rockingham, treasurer 

Cynthia C. Romero, M.D., FAAFP, MSV president, gave the closing speech at the convention. She spoke about the strength of MSVA’s grassroots efforts and presented a scholarship to be used for individuals who would like to join.

“MSVA’s leadership and members look forward to cultivating new paths with MSV and our local alliances,” said Mrs. Morgan, MSVA president. “I am very excited and honored to lead our organization in the continuing mission of supporting the family of medicine and promoting the health of our communities through our alliance components and grassroots efforts in reaching out to their communities with health focused programs and philanthropic efforts.”