From the PLA President: Making Better Use of Time in a Virtual Space

It was about this time last year that our corner of the world was beginning to grasp the stark reality of a novel virus which had made its way around the world with devastating results. In some ways, it barely feels like a moment has passed since then – in many others, the personal and professional spaces in which we exist have been altered forever.

The Pacific Lipid Association – in conjunction with our friends at the Midwest Lipid Association – were very much looking forward to hosting colleagues and welcoming new members at the 2021 Spring Clinical Lipid Update. Though we were unable to realize these plans, I was pleased to see our members engaged in the week-long offering of virtual educational opportunities organized in place of the meeting.

I know, after a full year, the idea of virtual engagement can seem repetitive at times, but I am happy to say we are working to change that outlook with fresh ideas and virtual events which introduce more interactive elements and social components. On March 8, the NLA hosted the first-ever “Night with the Lipid Legends” – a unique event that put members face-to-face with past NLA Presidents, giving them the opportunity to ask a variety of membership and lipidology questions. I found the degree of insight and camaraderie to be invaluable, and I highly recommend my fellow members become involved with similar events that will be available in the future.

Though it has been a challenging year, the PLA has stayed busy with a number of projects. I hope you will be as excited as I am about these upcoming events. You can read all about them in the Chapter Update. In the meantime, I hope to “see” everyone in June for the virtual 2021 Summer of Lipids meeting. Additionally, I sincerely hope to responsibly and safely share the same space with you in September for the 2021 Scientific Sessions in Savannah, GA! Until then, I hope you stay safe and be healthy.