Monique Porter, FACHE
Director of Strategic Initiatives and Oncology
Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Message From Your ACHE Regent
Spring 2021
Spring is often described as the season of new beginnings. Flower buds start to bloom, we begin to have more days that are warm than cold, and the world around us seems to come to life again. In more ways than one, this seems to hold true this spring. With continued efforts to keep COVID-19 transmission rates low and increasing vaccination rates, it truly does feel like a new beginning right now. For me, it feels like that last quarter mile of a long hike. Where you know, you’re so close to the top, and you can start to see the tree line open up. You’ve been through some strenuous stretches, are exhausted, and sometimes wondered if you’d ever get there. It’s at this point that you may slow down a bit. You may be reflecting on your journey – excited about what you’re about to accomplish and realizing that what you’ve been through has had a number of unexpected turns to navigate (and that it would may have taken longer than you thought!).
It’s valuable to take the time for that moment of reflection and to take stock of what our collective society has been through over the last 14 months. What your organization has been through. What your family and friends have been through. What you’ve been through. We all went into this field because we inherently aspire to take care of those in need. And it is truly amazing how all of you have contributed to that mission and continued to provide excellent care for patients through a once-in-a-lifetime, devastating pandemic. Be sure to give yourself and others the credit you deserve!
As I begin my role as your Regent, I am excited to be your representation to ACHE. My goals are to be your voice in advancing your professional development and ensure we don’t miss the opportunity to move the needle on healthcare disparities that the pandemic has so blatantly highlighted. I’ve been working in healthcare for the last 20 years, in a provider-based setting with a wonderful group of colleagues at Newton-Wellesley Hospital and within the Mass General Brigham. I joined ACHE because I was asked to present on a panel for Congress. Until then, I didn’t have the full appreciation for the value a professional organization could provide to me. I’ve learned there is a lot of healthcare outside of the walls I’ve been living in and that to be a truly well-rounded leader, continuous education from various perspectives is key. As leaders, we learn from each other in ways that cannot always be seen when you’ve worked with the same people. That’s my why – I encourage you to find your what your why is! #achemawhatsyourwhy
Lastly, I want to make sure you know there are many members of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, Early Careerist Network, Programs Committee, and Membership and Advancement Committee working hard behind the scenes to provide you education and networking opportunities. Here’s how to find out what’s coming up for you to take advantage of www.massache.org.
Take care,
Monique