I am humbled and honored to be able to participate in the 2023-2024 Leadership Program. I am currently an endourologist focusing on stone disease at Vanderbilt in Nashville, Tennessee, and I practice within the Southeastern Section of the AUA.

There are 2 aspects of this program that I hope to take away from this Leadership Class. First, I am excited about the networking opportunity in this program. Both 2023-2024 class participants and mentors and their bios are listed on the AUA website. The members of the class are very accomplished and are drawn from all sections with a diverse representation of all specialties and career interests. The mentors are highly respected leaders with a track record of service to the AUA. Often, I feel that my personal connections within urology are limited within my section, subspecialty, or institutions where I have trained or practiced. I do not know many urologists outside of these areas. This program would provide structured and unstructured opportunities to get to know those outside of my typical comfort zone who are also interested in leadership and advancing AUA initiatives.

Second, the Leadership Program provides opportunities to learn about and serve the AUA. The AUA is so much different now than when I was a resident joining for the first time as a member. At times, the growing number of AUA initiatives and programs can seem daunting, especially when considering how one might participate. Through this program, I look forward to getting my feet wet and developing leadership skills that one day might benefit the AUA and its membership. A highlight of the program is attending and presenting at the AUA Annual Urology Advocacy Summit, where we will learn more about advocacy for urology.

As I reflect upon receiving this honor, I am incredibly grateful to those who have mentored me in urology and endourology. I look forward to the exciting year ahead.