Dear Colleagues and Friends of ACPA,

It is an incredible opportunity to be your president in 2021. I have been an ACPA member for more than 25 years and could not be more honored to serve our organization in this capacity. I would not be the clinician, team member, researcher, teacher, advocate, or leader that I am today without this amazing organization.  It was one of the best decisions of my career to heed the advice of my mentor and colleagues to join all those years ago.  I treasure every bit of the knowledge I have gained, professional camaraderie I have experienced, and friendships I have made across the globe through ACPA.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the leaders who have gone before and paved the way with such excellence – a special thanks to our Past-President Patricia A. Beals, DMD, MS for boldly guiding us through the many challenges we faced in 2020. We are better because of her leadership.

Though we are still battling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, I believe the vision for 2021 is clear: we will continue to do whatever it takes to further the mission of ACPA as we give hope to patients, families, and professionals in the cleft and craniofacial community. When I reflect on the past year, I am inspired by the resilience, innovation and passion prominently displayed in each of you. Together, we persevered to make a difference for the people we care about so deeply.

The theme for ACPA’s Virtual Annual Meeting this year is “Spring Forward.” My hope is that we will lean into that concept not only during the meeting, but throughout the entire year as we embrace the endless opportunities ahead of us. We will continue to adapt and find creative ways to connect like never before. I encourage you to keep reaching out and building bridges. Maybe you’ll submit an abstract this year, host a webinar or consider sharing your story – whether it’s sharing your experience as a member or becoming an #ACPAAwarenessAlly. You can make an impact right where you are.

From myself, the ACPA Board of Directors and the National Office Team, thank you for your commitment and support. I look forward to the year ahead with you as we carry on with the good work of ACPA.

Sincerely,

Lynn M. Fox, MA, MEd, CCC-SLP
2021 ACPA President