2. What is your current job/professional responsibilities?

I am excited to start a position as a general pediatrician with Children’s Primary Care Medical Group in La Jolla. I look forward to working alongside several seasoned general pediatricians in the Girard Ave office but also as part of the larger group practice. I look forward to learning the ropes as a civilian pediatrician both in the practice and at Scripps Memorial Hospital where I will work in the Nursery.

3. How did you first get involved in the AAP?

I first got involved with the AAP during residency, when I served as our resident representative. I was able to attend a National Conference and Exhibition and remember being in awe of all of the wonderful work the AAP was involved in. Over my years of military service I have been a member of both the Uniformed Services Chapters East and West and I served on the Executive Committee of the Section on Uniformed Services. I also had the opportunity to serve on the Committee on Environmental Health where I learned a tremendous amount from world renowned experts in the field.

4. Why should pediatricians join the AAP and their AAP Chapter?

The AAP, both nationally and locally, serves as an academic and scientifically based “home” for pediatricians. The advocacy of the AAP, both for pediatricians and for all children is amazing! Getting involved opens opportunities for individuals to improve their own practices—to learn, network and advocate!

5. What is your current role in the AAP-CA3 chapter?

I am honored to serve as the President of AAP-CA3. Serving on the executive board for the past 6 years, I have learned from stellar pediatricians in the community and I look forward to continuing to support chapter related activities for our members and for all children in San Diego and Imperial Counties.

6. How does the chapter support your passion?

The AAP-CA3 is an amazing and very well run chapter of AAP. Our Executive Director and Program Directors are all outstanding at managing a myriad of programs. They are forward thinking and well connected both locally and nationally.

7. Did you have a mentor who influenced you to become the physician you are today?

I have worked with many amazing physicians over the years. As a young child, my interest in pediatrics was sparked by my own pediatrician, but early in my military career I was mentored by a very strong female role model. Dr. Ildy Katona, Captain (retired) United States Navy was an immigrant, a Pediatric Rheumatologist and Department Head of Pediatrics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, the military’s medical school. She was instrumental in mentoring me into a career in military medical education and one of the reasons why I stayed in the military for an entire career, plus some. She modeled for me what it meant to be a strong female leader, compassionate clinician, researcher and advocate!

8. What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to spend time with my wonderful family. My husband, Tom, is also retired from the US Navy and continues to work supporting the intelligence community. I have terrific daughters who keep me busy and I love to travel and read.