This is Our Why

Good morning.

I’m excited to share with you today a recording of the leadership speech I gave last week during the annual meeting of the Association of American Medical Colleges.

But, first, I wanted to call out that tomorrow is the beginning of Antibiotic Awareness Week – which is a great time to recognize the importance of thoughtful and appropriate use of antibiotics within all areas of our health system. Antibiotics save lives, improve health outcomes by reducing the impact or prevalence of infections and, through efforts like the UMMC Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, help with certain data points that directly influenced our rise to a B grade with Leapfrog. While using or prescribing an antibiotic isn’t always the answer, it can be an important part of effective patient care.

Now, on to today’s topic.

I previewed in VC Notes a couple of weeks ago what I was planning to talk about in my Leadership Plenary speech to the attendants of the 2023 AAMC annual meeting, called Learn Serve Lead. Now, I’m able to share with you a recording of my talk. Based on feedback I received, I think the theme of the talk and the stories I shared resonated with many in attendance.

Also, I heard from people who know little about Mississippi, our history, culture and challenges but want to learn more or visit our state to experience what I described as “the two sides of our coin.”

While I’m not a spokesperson for the state visitors' bureau, I’m always happy to talk to anyone who will listen about my home state that I care for deeply. All platforms, big or small, are right for any of us to advocate for A Healthier Mississippi. 

I hope you enjoy!

To go directly to the beginning of my speech jump to the 4:32 mark.

AAMC Leadership Plenary with LouAnn Woodward, MD (Learn Serve Lead 2023) from AAMC.