Last week, PSA hosted its first-ever Professional Development Conference in Columbus, Ohio, where 60 members and guests gathered for two days of learning, collaboration, and personal growth. As PSA's inaugural professional development event, it exceeded expectations and left attendees and organizers alike energized and inspired.
One of the most memorable aspects of the conference was the genuine enthusiasm shared by all involved. From the first sessions to the final discussions, the excitement, gratitude, and camaraderie were palpable. The experience was uplifting, and attendees' faces conveyed that better than any words could-a true testament to the value of connecting with like-minded professionals in the field.
Here are some highlights that show why this event was such a landmark for PSA:
-
Diverse Representation: Attendees came from 21 states in the U.S., two Canadian provinces, and even the Dominican Republic and Morocco! In total, participants represented 22 universities, five industry partners, and three USDA research facilities, underscoring the event's international and interdisciplinary reach.
-
Robust Programming: The conference featured 15 keynote speeches, talks, and panel discussions on critical topics such as conflict management, emotional intelligence, generational communication, and strategies for navigating academic promotion and tenure. The sessions were expertly designed to provide practical takeaways for attendees at all career stages.
A graduate student attendee captured the gratitude felt by many: "I just wanted to thank you and the PSA planning and organizing committee for putting together such a valuable and impactful professional development experience. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate and for the insightful interview session." This kind of feedback reflects PSA's commitment to fostering professional growth and mentorship within the poultry science community.
The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication of the Organizing Committee. Special thanks go to Brian Fairchild, Deana Jones, Liz Karcher, Jason Emmert, Miguel Barrios, and Zac Williams, who played key roles as both presenters and active participants.
The PSA Professional Development Conference is yet another answer to the question, "What is PSA doing for its members?" This event has set the stage for an enduring tradition of professional development and community-building that strengthens the field of poultry science.
------------------------------
Lyndsey Johnston
Director of Communications
Poultry Science Association (PSA)
Champaign IL
------------------------------