Letter from the President

Greetings Auxilians, Friends, and Partners,

It is my distinct honor to extend heartfelt congratulations to our Immediate Past President,
Sharon Phillips Wofford of the Memphis, TN Chapter. We were truly fortunate to have been led
this past year by such a dynamic, innovative, and visionary young woman. Sharon culminated
her exceptional tenure with a memorable and inspiring National Convention in the “Windy City”
of Chicago.

To those who experienced the powerful Memorial Breakfast, the engaging House of Delegates
sessions, the delightful luncheon with dance lessons, the enriching tour of Chicago’s South
Side, and more – we owe a debt of gratitude to our dedicated Convention Chair, Wilma McGee,
and the entire convention committee. Under their leadership, every detail was executed with
excellence. We enjoyed exceptional shopping from great vendors this year with artwork and
merchandise for around the country. Our Chair, Sarita Cathcart-McLarin, newly elected
President-elect is due our gratitude for a successful Marketplace.

Our Second Vice President, Gwendolyn Taylor, and the Program Committee also deserve
special recognition. The sessions provided eye-opening insights into the needs of medical school
applicants, the challenges faced by patients with sickle cell disease, the ongoing shortage of
physicians in our communities, and so much more. These discussions reinforced the urgency and
importance of our continued work.

During my installation as your 87th President, I humbly accepted the privilege to lead this
esteemed organization — one that has served communities faithfully since 1938. We were
founded to support the mission of the National Medical Association, promote public education
on health and sanitation, and advocate for legislative change that advances medical equity.

In alignment with this mission, our theme for 2025–2026 is:

“Bridging the Gap: Advocating Health Equity through Mentorship, Advocacy, and
Scholarship.”

The need to strengthen the pipeline of health care professionals serving our communities is more
urgent than ever. To meet this challenge, we must unite across all six of our regions and
recommit to the fight for health equity.

Key initiatives for the year will include:

• Growing our membership
• Supporting our students through financial aid and mentorship
• Advocating for legislation that expands health care access
• Strengthening our community outreach efforts
• Prioritizing our national initiative, NAAYI (National African American Youth
  Initiative)

Auxilians, I am committed—and I pray that you are as well. Let us move forward united in
purpose, unwavering in determination, and resolute in our mission. Together, we will bridge
the gap and work toward a future where health equity is not just a goal, but a reality.