by Dr. Fischer
PAPS President
As my term as President of the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society draws to a close, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for what we have accomplished together this year. Through our collective dedication, we have achieved remarkable milestones that have elevated our professional society and deepened our impact across the Commonwealth. For a full list click here- link to full charts.
Just a few highlights include:
MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT :
Created a modernized e-newsletter, expanded social media LINK, established new awards and honors, and launched our first statewide conference, the Keystone Psychiatric Forum coming Oct 9-11, 2026. LINK to area with agenda
ADVOCACY, GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, AND COLLABORATIONS :
Addressed access by highlighting benefits of collaborative care vs risks of psychology prescribing, addressed school mental health and AI, and collaborated with PSAM to develop a joint position statement on mitigating gambling harm (press release pending).
BUDGET/FINANCE IMPROVEMENTS: Implemented a comprehensive financial strategy to address budget challenges, drive membership growth, and expand non-dues revenue with new sponsorship initiatives and donors, while negotiating and limiting cost increases with management and vendors.
GOVERNANCE : Strengthened leadership alignment and collaboration through an enhanced Chapter President Coalition and new initiatives to support smooth transitions across chapters during leadership changes.
EDUCATION : Continued to deliver high-value education with an included monthly webinar series for members with high attendance and offering up to 12 CME credits annually, featuring top-tier speakers. Additional offerings, including a Patient Safety and Risk webinar and the upcoming Keystone Psychiatric Forum which will offer necessary CME, networking, and scholarly opportunities.
ASSEMBLY : Continued to amplify national impact through strong representation in the APA Assembly and with high-impact Action Papers addressing public health, clinical care, and professional standards.
CHAPTER ACHIEVEMENTS: From new programming to high-engagement events, expanded awards, and so much more chapters advanced collaboration, engagement, and sustainability across the state.
These accomplishments are a reflection of you—this community, this shared purpose, and the passion we bring to our work every day. And as I say goodbye, I want to thank the following: .
Our PaPS Members – I’m truly grateful for all the ways you’ve contributed and participated this year—whether through a committee, chapter leadership role, participation in advocacy, attending an event, or simply supporting the society with your ongoing membership.
The Executive Council and our Chapter presidents and leaders, as well as our Assembly representatives – from hours spent streamlining budgets, brainstorming ideas, organizing webinars, championing new events, reviewing action papers, and continuing to keep our membership thriving – your work has produced so much and our society has been left better.
Our hardworking management leaders Pat Troy, CEO and Robbi Cook, Executive Director as well as our passionate lobbyist Lois Hagarty.
And finally a thank you to our visionary newsletter editor in chief Dr. Hope Selarnick.
Serving as your President has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of my career. As we look to the future, I am confident that the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society will continue to be a beacon of excellence, compassion, and leadership. Let us carry forward the spirit of innovation and collaboration, while continuing to advocate for our patients and profession with unwavering dedication.