Meyer Is Newest Member of ALA Council

Among the various otolaryngology societies, the American Laryngological Association (ALA) is second only to the AOS in longevity. Council participation has long been considered a particular distinction among all otolaryngologists - indeed until the fellowship era, the leadership the ALA came from varied clinical backgrounds.  

Founded in 1878, ALA was for years very exclusive. A member literally had to pass away or quit to open up a member spot. Membership was capped at 100. Now, even with the cap removed, only a few make the jump to active fellowship every year. Dr. Meyer has been an active member for a decade or so, one of about 125 in the country. 

For years, the leadership shuffle and kabuki of society medicine was shrouded in nomination games and deals. ALA was no exception - until these last few years when nominations were opened up to the membership at large. Long overdue. 

This year, Dr. Meyer was nominated by several members, and the nominating committee unanimously chose her to join our ALA Council - in recognition of her significant scholarship in voice and work impact, her unambiguous national expertise in neurolaryngology, and also very much in recognition of her remarkable work as an organizer and educator here as Oto-HNS residency program director. They also know two fundamental things about Dr. Meyer: she is a tireless worker with impeccable integrity. 

Dr. Meyer will begin on council as Councillor-At-Large for 2 years, and then will slot in to one of the named officer roles (Historian, Editor etc.). In 5-6 years, Dr. Meyer will lead our American Laryngological Association as our President.

I am currently on the ALA council in the role of Historian, making this one of a handful times in the modern era when two partners from the same program are on active council at the same time. With Neel Bhatt becoming an Active Fellow in the Trio this year (and JP Giliberto not far behind!), UW Laryngology is on track to have SIX ALA fellows! I am pretty sure that is a record.

If you see Dr. Meyer, please congratulate her. It is a well deserved recognition from her national peers and reflects the trust our field puts in her to lead us on council now and into the future.

-Al Merati, MD