Post-Launch Thoughts

by Kathryn Reed - January 7th, 2020

Hello everyone!

First and foremost, I would like to give a HUGE thank you to those who have expressed their excitement about this organization going live! From those who have submitted their e-mail addresses to be alerted when our membership portion goes live, to those who have shared, commented, e-mailed, and re-shared our launch day posts – we appreciate you! This level of excitement and anticipation is everything that we hoped to see!

Secondly, I would like to clarify that there is, and always will be, room for allies of every ethnicity to join us as members. If our mission statement aligns with your vision for the future of the physician assistant profession, then we are happy to have you! I believe that intentional collaboration and conversation with folks of different backgrounds is how we can create lasting systemic improvement. This organization was created to give everyone, but especially Black individuals, seats at the table.

Why did I specify Black folks? Short answer – we aren’t given enough access to the tables where the biggest decisions are made, even when we earn the same credentials and have the same experience. Longer answer - because my experiences as a Black woman navigating this career from PA-S to PA-C and beyond have shown me shortcomings in our profession (and gems that should be expanded to the greater population).

The idea that these tables (though virtual in my example, but in reality found in board rooms, hospitals, and office spaces across the nation) have a finite number of seats available, and thus a finite number of people allowed to participate in conversations about systemic change is a falsehood. The NSBPA aims to change that narrative.

Again, thank you for all of your support! I cannot wait to get to know more of you, and to communicate with you via our Forum for members!

With love,

Kathryn, MS, PA-C
NSBPA Founder and President