My understanding of the National President’s role within the Student National Medical Association is deeply rooted in its function as the chief programmatic officer of the organization. This position demands a strategic oversight of all national committees, guiding them to execute intentional and impactful programming that advances the mission of the SNMA. This is achieved by curating an Executive Agenda that focuses on our community service protocol, the intimate needs of chapters, the current social and political climate, and the future direction of SNMA. The National President is instrumental in steering the organization’s direction, ensuring that every initiative and program aligns with our goals to support current and future underrepresented minority medical students, promote diversity in medicine, and address the health disparities in underserved communities.

My experiences serving as a regional treasurer, a member of the finance committee, and an NFLP fellow have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of the National President’s responsibilities. Through these experiences, I have engaged directly in the planning and execution of programs that resonate with our mission, gaining invaluable insights into the operational intricacies of effective program management within the SNMA. Furthermore, conversations with numerous past presidents and board members have enriched my perspective, offering me a comprehensive view of the position’s demands and the strategic vision required to fulfill them. These interactions have not only honed my leadership skills but also deepened my commitment to the SNMA’s objectives.

At the heart of the National President’s responsibilities is the ethos of servant leadership. Being the son of missionaries, this is a principle that has been central to my life from a young age. This upbringing instilled in me a profound dedication to serving others, shaping my approach to leadership as one that prioritizes the needs of the community and fosters an environment of support, empowerment, and collective growth. My commitment to servant leadership aligns with the demands of the National President position, where the focus is on uplifting members, advocating for underrepresented voices in medicine, and leading by example to inspire positive change.

Through my experiences in various roles within and outside the SNMA, I’ve acquired a diverse set of skills that prepare me for the National President position. My tenure as Regional IX Treasurer helped me understand what it takes to run a non-profit organization, not only from an operational standpoint but also pushing our mission forward by assisting in the execution of impactful programming for our members. In addition to serving as Regional Treasurer, my experience as the Grants Subcommittee Chair allowed me to further understand various ways in which our organization secures outside funding and its creative utilization to enhance our programmatic needs on a local, regional, and national level. My experience as a Future Leadership Project (FLP) Fellow allowed me to develop strategic planning and leadership skills through the program’s various components. Additionally, the program allowed me to gain immeasurable knowledge of the inner workings of the organization, and work with various committees and national leaders. Through NFLP, I have garnered an appreciation and understanding of SNMA as a 501c3 nonprofit organization as well as the duty and responsibilities that come with the role of National President-Elect. Concurrently, I played a pivotal role in reviving my local SNMA chapter by working with my school to appoint a new faculty advisor, elect a new executive board, and assist in planning impactful programs for the academic year.

Outside of the SNMA, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in various capacities in different organizations. These experiences have shaped, and continue to shape, the leader I am today. Most notably, my role as Assistant Surgeon General to the Eastern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. allowed me to engage in health advocacy and education through webinars, social media campaigns, and in-person workshops. During that same time, my initiative in founding the Black Student Council at The City College of New York underscored the importance of collaboration and unity among diverse groups. This experience also deepened my understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within minority student communities. Leading this council taught me the importance of building inclusive platforms that empower students, fostering a sense of belonging and active participation in their educational journey. Additionally, my background as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Health & Safety Manager has sharpened my crisis management and effective communication skills which I believe to be valuable skills when working in a team setting

Collectively, these experiences have not only prepared me for the complexities of leading the SNMA but also underscored my commitment to its mission of supporting minority medical students and promoting health equity.

Balancing the rigors of medical school with the responsibilities of serving as the National President of the Student National Medical Association presents a unique set of challenges. My approach to maintaining transparency and accountability, even in the face of these challenges, is rooted in the principles of open communication and strong team dynamics.

Open communication with the board and HQ staff is essential for navigating the complexities of our roles and responsibilities. This means regular updates, sharing of challenges and successes alike, and seeking feedback. It’s not just about keeping each other informed but also about creating a supportive environment where accountability is a shared value. By fostering a culture of honesty and openness, we can collectively address any issues that arise and make informed decisions that benefit the SNMA and its members.

Experience has taught me that teams who know each other well on a personal level operate with a higher degree of efficiency and empathy. To this end, developing personal relationships within the SNMA leadership is not just beneficial but necessary. Participating in events like the National Leadership Institutes and the Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC) provides excellent opportunities to strengthen these bonds. These interactions go beyond professional networking, allowing us to understand each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and personal circumstances. This understanding fosters a supportive leadership environment where duties are not just tasks but commitments we hold to each other and the organization.