WMAC-APA Reclaims Title as Chapter of the Year

Express meetings in rotating locations, “Train the Trainer” sessions for study group leaders, and community service spent brightening the day of hospitalized children lifted the Washington Metropolitan Area Chapter  (WMAC) to earn the title of 2019 Chapter of the Year.

WMAC, which last claimed the title in 2014, came up with new ideas to drive attendance and participation at chapter meetings. The express meeting format is similar to a regular chapter meeting but limits time spent on networking and formal chapter business, allowing members to attend with less of a time commitment.

The chapter also rotated meeting sites to allow more members to attend considering the widespread region it serves.

The “Train the Trainer” concept supports WMAC’s volunteer teachers through topics such as building presentations and capturing an audience’s attention.

 “I like the ‘Train the Trainer’ concept,” a Chapter Recognition Committee member said. “It’s a great investment into members who want to teach study groups.”

WMAC’s community service included a play date for patients at Children’s National Medical Center and their families. Chapter members led arts and crafts activities, karaoke, and games for the children. Chapter President Abbey Moran, CPP, President-Elect , CPP, and the chapter’s Community Outreach Committee spent months planning the special event.

This year’s Chapter of the Year contest was the first under a redesigned format that features a shorter questionnaire and a greater focus on accomplishments to allow chapters of all sizes to compete on a level playing ground.