Episode 15: Rising the ranks with self-less leadership with Dr. AJ Copeland
The latest podcast episode is with Dr. AJ Copeland- a general surgeon, retired Colonel in the Army, former President of the Association of Women Surgeons and current Regent for the American College of Surgeons, and a personal hero of mine.
She describes her rise in leadership in major national surgery organizations. She is a self-described "joiner" and if there was a position that seemed right for her, she would always raise her hand to do it. Once involved in a position, she notes the importance of doing the work. She found meaningful work in AWS as a contributor on numerous projects including the AWS Pocket Mentor found here and creating the guide for patients on "What is a surgical resident" (found here) as an ACS governor.
On this episode, she shared some tips on leadership:
- if you find a need- either something that needs to get done, or you think you can do it better- then raise your hand and get involved
- When in the position, do the work
- Bring others along. You may see their potential before they do. Tell others about opportunities, and encourage them to apply.
She stressed the importance of getting involved in national societies, especially the American College of Surgeons. The ACS is the umbrella organization for all surgical subspecialties. Unlike smaller societies, the ACS has the numbers to help lobby for change, advocate for what surgeons need, and provide other services like education (SESAP, ATLS, the Clinical Congress), quality (NSQIP), and other benefits.
She is one of 24 Regents of the ACS, a part of the organization that is responsible for the big picture and directives for all surgeons. She was a Governor prior to this, a body of around 300 surgeons who act as representatives of the Fellows. Governors represent the Fellows of the American College of Surgeons, and are the official communications link between Fellows and the Board of Regents.
