Behind every impactful initiative at ACAAI is a dedicated group of volunteers whose expertise and efforts drive the College’s mission forward. These members transform ideas into practical resources, ensuring the College remains responsive to the evolving needs of members and our specialty.
What often begins as a conversation among committee members, or a suggestion from a member survey, sparks something bigger. These behind-the-scenes efforts are refined and brought to life through the commitment of ACAAI volunteers.
“Volunteers are the engine behind many of ACAAI’s most impactful initiatives. They serve on councils, committees, and task forces, contributing their time and expertise to shape resources, policies, and educational content that directly support practicing allergists and immunologists,” said Dr. Niraj Patel, Chair of Clinical Immunology and Autoimmune Diseases Committee. “Serving on ACAAI committees is a great way to broaden your impact and influence members on a national level, hone leadership skills, and shape the direction of future College initiatives.”
A recent example from this committee illustrates how member feedback leads to real-world solutions.
“Our committee administered a survey to College members to better understand and address gaps in immunologic evaluations of patients. These results led us to develop broad-reaching webinars on topics like genetic testing for immunodeficiency. We also advocated for and successfully expanded The Allergists’ Foundation Community Grant Program to include a call for proposals related to immunology.”
Committees meet to explore new ideas and determine the best path forward. Working closely with their staff liaison, committee members evaluate feasibility and develop a plan to bring it to life. This collaborative process ensures that good ideas become real solutions that benefit ACAAI membership.
“In short, volunteers don’t just support the College, they are the College,” Dr. Patel added. “Their work ensures ACAAI stays responsive, innovative, and deeply connected to the needs of its members and the patients they serve.”
Whether it’s developing educational content or creating practical resources, ACAAI volunteers are at the heart of shaping the College’s work. Have an idea for a committee project? Start by sharing it with your committee chair! Your insight might be the spark that drives the next impactful College initiative.
