After nearly two years as the southeast district representative for WHPRMS, my term is about to end. In November, I’ll turn over the proverbial reins to Christy Pierce, my colleague at Children’s Hospital and Health System.

I won’t be attending board meetings next year, nor will I be involved in the day-to-day business of running WHPRMS. But, believe me, I will stay involved. The connections I’ve made and the things I’ve learned are worth so much more than the cost of membership (which remains incredibly reasonable).

Throughout my career, I’ve been a member of several other communication-related organizations, and they have been great. But they were different – larger, more diverse and even overwhelming at times.

WHPRMS is small and exclusively focused on health care. After just three years as a member, I know dozens of people in jobs like mine. I can pick up the phone or send a message and get honest feedback, clever ideas and effective strategies. And the networking has been fantastic!

That being said, I’m in for the long haul and looking forward to serving on a committee or two next year. I hope you’ll consider doing the same. You’ll have fun, learn new skills, make some friends and maybe even find your next job. Isn’t that why you joined?

If you’re ready to become more active in WHPRMS, post a comment here or e-mail me at dbernatz@chw.org.