2024 Connecticut Psychiatric Society Annual Meeting
The Connecticut Psychiatric Society (CPS) held its highly anticipated Annual Meeting on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at the historic New Haven Lawn Club. The event, running from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, was a resounding success, drawing members and esteemed guests from across the state for an evening of reflection, celebration, and forward-thinking discussion.
The evening kicked off with a warm welcome by Dr. Tichianaa Armah, outgoing CPS President, to new and returning members, providing an excellent opportunity for networking and reconnecting with colleagues.
Attendees were treated to a keynote address by the dynamic Dr. Amanda Calhoun, whose presentation, "The SilencedStories of Psychiatry & Mental Healthcare," captivated the audience. Dr. Calhoun, a Clinical Fellow at Yale Child Study Center, highlighted the often-overlooked narratives within psychiatry and mental health, emphasizing the impact of anti-Black racism on children's mental health. Her research and advocacy, underpinned by over 30 peer-reviewed publications and numerous op-eds, sparked meaningful conversations about equity and inclusivity in mental healthcare.
In a significant highlight of the evening, attendees had the privilege of meeting Dr. Marketa Wills, the incoming CEO and Medical Director of the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Dr. Wills, who is the first Black American and first woman to hold this position, shared her vision for the future of psychiatric care, focusing on innovation, equity, and patient-centered approaches. Her previous role as Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for Johns Hopkins Health Plans provided her with extensive experience in optimizing clinical and quality outcomes, which she aims to bring to the APA.
The meeting also honored State Sen. Saud Anwar, a champion for public health, with special recognition, The Distinguished Citizen Award, for his contributions to healthcare and public service. Senator Anwar, who represents the 3rd State Senate District, has an impressive track record of service both as a pulmonologist and a public servant. His humanitarian work, particularly in disaster relief, has earned him recognition and respect across various sectors.
Other award recipients were Dr. Manu Sharma (left with Dr. Jessica Abellard), who received the Rising Leader Award for his dedication and helpful participation to CPS. Dr. Caylan Bookman (right with Dr. Paul Bryant) received the Service to CPS Award in memory of Cornelis Boelhouwer, MD. This award is presented to a member who has made significant contributions to CPS that brings credit and honor to the organization and whose actions best exemplify the ideals of CPS.
The event also marked the end of Dr. Tichianaa Armah's tenure as CPS President. Dr. Armah was recognized for her leadership and dedication to the psychiatric society, leaving a legacy of progress and advocacy. Dr. Armah will be succeeded by incoming president Dr. Paul Bryant. Dr. Bryant spoke on his vision to provide additional support for early career psychiatrists, work on building alliances with other groups dedicated to helping individuals with mental illness, and take on the issue of mental health parity.
The meeting concluded with the voting in of the new executive council, setting the stage for the future direction of the CPS.
- President: Paul Bryant, M.D.
- President-Elect: Jessica Abellard, M.D.
- Treasurer: Ayala Danzig, M.D.
- Secretary: Carla Schnitzlein, D.O.
- Immediate Past President, APA Representative: Tichianaa Armah, M.D.
- Councilor-At-Large: Andrew J. Gerber, M.D., Ph.D.
Continuing their terms on the executive council are Councilor-At-Large, Ruby Lekwauwa, M.D. and Representatives to the APA Assembly, Caren Teitelbaum, M.D. and Tobias Wasser, M.D.
Thank you to our evening's sponsors:
 
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