Personal Statement
I believe one of the most important missions of the SGO is to train and educate our fellows. It has been my distinct pleasure to have served on the board of the Society of Gynecological Oncology from 2022 to 2025. While it took me two ballots to become elected to the board, the uncompromising effort was worth it. I believe the same persistence that allowed me to be elected to the board will manifest itself in being chosen President Elect II. When I joined the Board, my goal was centered on making everyone’s voice heard. During my time on the board, I helped shepherd this through many initiatives including the SGO Leadership, Engagement, and Action in Diversity (LEAD) program to address this deficiency. However, during my service it came to my attention as I am sure it has come to yours that our fellowship training has begun to suffer from a sickness of disinterest. In 2024 there were only 1.07 applicants for each fellowship position which is down 31% from the previous 10-year trend of 1.55 or higher applicants for each fellowship position. I think we can do better. My singular goal should I be elected would be to increase the aspiration for our fellowship programs. We must make it a priority to seek to recruit the brightest and the best. If as a Society, we concentrate on increasing our passion 2% each day not just in our trainees but also in ourselves: this can synergize our society toward grander heights. I would hope over my tenure to make real and noticeable changes so that we can return Gynecologic Oncology to the pinnacle of fellowship opportunities. Remember: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world for the better” — Martin Luther King Jr.