It is with great pleasure that I write this letter as the new IADPO Board President. I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve alongside my Board colleagues and continue the work of IADPO with the support of committed and competent staff. In particular, I look forward to collaborating with the Executive Committee and full Board of Directors in providing advice and support to senior staff as they implement the new three-year strategic plan that was recently approved by IADPO’s membership.
We have a dynamic group of patient leaders located in 50 countries and representing over 60 dermatological disease areas. We are committed to further engaging our patient leaders to participate on committees including the governance, finance, membership, conference and nominating committees. Your participation is paramount to the continued success of our organization. Your involvement will assist us in ensuring we remain diverse and inclusive in our perspectives, thoughts, ideas and most importantly leveraging all of your personal experiences.
On behalf of the Board, I extend thanks and gratitude to outgoing Board President, Jean-Marie Meurant for his commitment to the IADPO Board since the inception in 2015. We are pleased he will continue to volunteer as a Board Director following his re-election this fall.
2019 was another successful year for IADPO as we saw substantial growth of membership, meaningful engagement with patient organization leaders and new and exciting partnerships for our organization. Please take a few moments to read the 2019 Year in Review.
On behalf of the Board and staff, wishing all Members a happy holiday season and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2020.
Warm regards,
Simmie Smith
IADPO Board President
