Letter from the Chair

Hello All,

As we wrap up another busy year, I’ve been thinking about how much our Section continues to grow — not just in numbers, but in connection, purpose, and support for one another.

ACEP25 in Salt Lake City gave many of us a chance to catch up, share what’s working (and what isn’t), and reset for the year ahead. I’m especially grateful to our leadership team for all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps things moving — it truly is a team effort.

At the meeting, we were able to recognize two incredible colleagues:
We recognized Dr. John Skiendzielewski for 46 years of active emergency medicine practice — an unbelievable testament to endurance and commitment. We also honored Dr. John Siefert for 33 years at the same emergency department, showing what long-term dedication to one community really looks like. Their careers remind us what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

We also stayed active on the advocacy front. Our Section supported resolutions aimed at limiting restrictive non-compete clauses and improving resources around employment negotiations and malpractice tail coverage. These are real issues affecting daily life and career stability for many of us, and I’m proud we’re helping push the conversation forward.

On the operational side, ACEP released updated Section Operational Guidelines. Since no ballots were cast initially, we’ll move to an online vote so everyone has a chance to weigh in.

Looking ahead, our goals are simple — build connection, provide value, and make sure every member feels like they have a place here. That means:

• more engagement through the ACEP engagED platform,
• more open conversations via town halls, and
• a newsletter lineup that tackles real-world topics — mentorship, finances, contracts, burnout, leadership, retirement, and more.

And here’s where you come in: your ideas, stories, and participation shape our Section more than anything else. Whether you’re early in your career, mid-journey, or thinking about what comes next, there’s space for you here.

Thank you for showing up every day — for your patients, your colleagues, and our specialty. I’m excited about the year ahead and grateful to be on this journey with you.

Warmly,

Skyler Smith, DO, MBA
Careers in Emergency Medicine Section
American College of Emergency Physicians