Dear POPS Members,

Welcome to another exciting year of growth, collaboration, and achievement for the Pediatric Orthopaedic Practitioners Society (POPS).

As we reflect on the past year, I am incredibly proud of what our organization has accomplished. What began as a vision to bring together pediatric orthopaedic nurse practitioners and physician assistants has grown into a thriving professional community of more than 400 members across the United States. As the professional home for pediatric orthopaedic nurse practitioners and physician assistants, POPS continues to unite clinicians across the country through education, mentorship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving the care of children with musculoskeletal conditions.

Our annual conference in May was a tremendous success, bringing together 60 participants from across the country for several days of learning, networking, and professional engagement. The meeting highlighted the expertise, dedication, and enthusiasm that define our membership. One of the conference highlights was the inaugural Jack Flynn Keynote Lecture, which inspired thoughtful discussion about the future of pediatric orthopaedic care and the evolving role of advanced practice providers within our specialty.

The impact of POPS extends well beyond our annual meeting. This year, several of our members are serving as faculty at the International Pediatric Orthopaedic Symposium (IPOS) and the International Congress on Early Onset Scoliosis (ICEOS). Their contributions reflect the growing recognition of the expertise that pediatric orthopaedic nurse practitioners and physician assistants bring to clinical practice, education, research, and leadership. Seeing POPS members represented on national and international stages reinforces the important role our profession plays in advancing pediatric orthopaedic care.

Another exciting milestone this year has been the continued strengthening of our relationship with the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA). Through our collaboration, we have established a dual membership opportunity, creating greater access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and professional engagement for members of both organizations. This partnership represents an important step forward in aligning our shared missions and ensuring that advanced practice providers have a strong voice within the broader pediatric orthopaedic community.

Perhaps one of the accomplishments we are most proud of is the remarkable growth of our mentorship program. What began as a new initiative has quickly become one of the most valuable benefits of POPS membership. Experienced practitioners are connecting with colleagues who are new to the specialty, fostering relationships that support clinical excellence, professional confidence, leadership development, and career advancement. The enthusiasm and participation in this program have exceeded expectations and underscore the collaborative spirit that makes POPS such a special organization.

As we look to the future, our goals remain focused on expanding educational opportunities, strengthening mentorship, fostering leadership development, and increasing the visibility and influence of pediatric orthopaedic advanced practice providers. Together, we will continue to build a community that supports its members while advancing the highest standards of care for the children and families we serve.

POPS thrives because of the engagement and dedication of its members. Whether you are interested in education, mentorship, conference planning, membership outreach, communications, research, committee work, or future leadership opportunities, there are numerous ways to get involved and contribute to our growing organization. We encourage members at every stage of their careers to share their talents, ideas, and perspectives. Volunteering is not only a meaningful way to support the society, but also an opportunity to build professional relationships, develop leadership skills, and help shape the future of pediatric orthopaedic practice.

If you have questions about POPS, are interested in volunteering, or would like to learn more about opportunities to become involved, please reach out to any member of our Board of Directors. Information about our board and volunteer opportunities can be found on our website. We welcome your ideas, your energy, and your participation as we continue to grow and strengthen our society.

Thank you for your dedication to POPS and to the profession. Your commitment, expertise, and willingness to support one another are the foundation of our organization's success. I am honored to serve alongside you and look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the coming year.

Sincerely,

Colleen P. Ditro, DNP, RN, CPNP, FAANP

"Connecting, mentoring, and advancing pediatric orthopaedic nurse practitioners and physician assistants nationwide."