I walked into the SRAI world almost 13 years ago at my first annual meeting. I was the only one from my institution that time around. It felt overwhelming for about ten minutes. Then the feeling of comradery and safety amongst my peers was all-encompassing and immediate. I volunteered at the registration desk that year, and I haven’t looked back since. I have moved forward with passion in the field I chose as a profession and served a society that has given me more than I could have ever expected.
My background was in human subjects research and compliance, and I found myself a little displaced in other professional organizations. SRAI changed all that. I felt right at home with like-minded professionals who were trying to figure it all out - just like me. Since then, I have attended every annual meeting, multiple section meetings, and regional meetings. I have learned so much from everyone that has furthered my career and built my confidence.
It would be an honor to serve you as a member of the Board of Directors. I served one year as an Ad Hoc Member and found it to be a very good way to learn more about SRAI and all our challenges and successes. In addition, my experiences as a co-chair of the Membership Committee, the Western Section President, attendance at various meetings, and assisting with projects over the years have prepared me for this pivotal role. I have also helped with almost every planning committee for the annual and Western section meetings. The LevelUP program was an exciting project in which to be involved, and one where I worked with peers across the country in developing content for SRAI members. I have felt the support and privilege of being named a Distinguished Faculty member as well as receiving the Hartford-Nicholsen Award.
It is time for me to give back in a larger way and be part of the future of SRAI by serving on the board. I am prepared to face the next three years with a commitment to every member of SRAI.
I want to serve as a voice for clinical trials research and identify ways to support those that are in those roles like I was so many years ago. I would like clinical trials professionals to recognize SRAI as a place to network and gain additional knowledge. It is critical that SRAI continues to offer benefits for our members that keep us all engaged.
I want to build upon the hard work and successes of every board member that has served before me and will serve alongside me over the next three years. With that, I will continue to remember our membership at the center of every decision and discussion to keep our organization successful and responsive to the needs of our field.
Thank you for your dedication to our organization. Every member contributes in their own way and that’s what makes SRAI so rewarding to me. I value everyone’s voice, experiences, and the friendships that have been built along the way. It will be a true honor to serve you as a member of the Board of Directors. I appreciate your consideration and support.
Authored by Tonya K. Edvalson, MHA, CCRP, CHRC, Operations Manager
University of Utah
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