Alejandro Palma, MD

Treasurer University of Chicago

Candidate Statement

Dear SAEM/CDEM members,

I am honored to present my candidacy for my second term as treasurer on the Clerkship Directors in Emergency Medicine (CDEM) executive committee. This past year, I was able to lead budgetary efficiencies, which allowed us to increase our SAEMF/CDEM Innovations in Undergraduate Emergency Medicine Education Grant from $5,000 to $8,000 for the upcoming academic year.

In my role as an assistant professor of emergency medicine at the University of Chicago, where I serve as the emergency medicine (EM) clerkship director and contribute to various leadership roles, I bring a robust background in medical education. I am proud to have been recognized as a premier educator, receiving multiple teaching awards, and securing grant funding for curriculum development from the Academy of Distinguished Medical Educators. Additionally, my prior experience in investment banking has augmented my role as CDEM treasurer.

My commitment to medical education extends beyond my institution. Currently, I serve as the SAEM education subcommittee co-lead, focusing on creating best practices for clinician educators and developing curricula for educating both novice and experienced learners. Further, as part of CDEM, I was the editor for the Acute Pain module in the M3 curriculum on the SAEM website.

I seek re-election as treasurer on the CDEM executive committee with a vision to continue our substantial impact on the CDEM community, particularly in the crucial area of student advising. Recognizing the decline in student interest in emergency medicine, attributed in part to post-COVID perceptions and the 2030 EM Workforce projections, I am driven to address these concerns head-on.

As part of the executive committee, I envision a continued dynamic and responsive CDEM that adapts to the needs of its members each year. Together, we will revitalize student interest in EM, viewing the recent decline as a call to action. If entrusted to continue with my role as treasurer, I am committed to helping lead this charge, providing our members with the necessary tools to shape a positive narrative about EM and foster a thriving community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of CDEM.