Have a Voice in APS, Become Involved in APS Committees
 

Interested in Joining an APS Committee?
Contact a Committee Chair Prior to the Annual Meeting
 

APS is an organization that relies on its volunteers for planning and executing successful meetings and organizational duties. The committees of APS consist of volunteers that help disperse these tasks equally among its members. My first exposure to an APS committee was through an Epidemiology Committee meeting with my advisor. Initially, I thought I would not want to stay for the entire meeting and was unsure of how I would benefit from such an event. However, before the meeting was over, I began to understand how much these volunteers cared about APS and how easily communication could be conducted between the individuals in the room. There were some disagreements among the volunteers, but each person’s views were accepted even if some of the others still felt differently about the issue.

Observing how each volunteer could have a voice in APS, and the camaraderie associated with the committees, has allowed me to realize how APS has maintained its success over the past 100 years. The committees of APS are a great way to gain knowledge about how the organization functions, and it can provide you with general insight into the operation of scientific committees. Attending an APS committee meeting does not require a commitment from you and it can be a great way to meet more members of APS with interests similar to yours. I strongly recommend examining a few committees at this year’s meeting and even signing up for one or two. It is a worthwhile experience and will help you in your career as a plant pathologist.

Here’s how you can join an APS committee…

With several committees to choose from and a simplified process, it’s easier than ever to become involved in APS.

What level of commitment is necessary?
Committee members serve a 3-year term, which is renewable. During this time, they attend and participate in the committee meeting held each year at the APS annual meeting and are involved in other committee activities. The nature and extent of the activities of each committee depend on its mission, as well as on the ideas, imagination, enthusiasm, and dedication of its members. As an active committee member, you can make a difference!

What are APS committees currently working on?
Committees provide a mechanism by which the diverse views of plant pathologists can be considered. You can select from subject matter-focused committees or general policy committees. Check out the committee webpage on APSnet at www.apsnet.org/members/com/. On the webpage, you will find a listing of all committee chairs and members, a report of their recent activities, and other useful information related to APS committees.

How do I join an APS committee?
Volunteer to be a committee member by contacting the chair of the committee that interests you. To be considered for appointment, indicate your interest in serving on a committee in an e-mail to the committee chair by July 7, 2008, or if you will be at the annual meeting, attend the committee meeting in which you are interested. If appointed, your term will begin at the 2008 APS Annual Meeting.

If you have ever considered joining an APS committee, now is the time to get involved.