Insight Matters
Fall, 2003

20 Years Later...
by Philip A. Workman, Executive Director

It's hard to believe that 20 years have passed since I joined the OPA as your first executive director. Creating this position was a major commitment by the membership (dues were increased almost 200% - from $70/year to $200/year), thanks to the strong leadership with a vision to the future.

This certainly has been a most rewarding career for me. While there are several reasons, the two which top the list are: 1) that I believe in and admire your profession and your dedication in advocating for the persons you serve; and 2) that you always treated me as a "member of the family", not just as an employee. Because of this, I never felt that this was "just a job". I truly have been proud to be associated with you.

Reflecting on these 20 years has brought back a lot of good memories - too many to write about in this brief farewell article. It would consume the entire newsletter and then some. However, I can't help but mention our gala 40th and 50th Anniversary celebrations. We've had quality CME meetings, coupled with fun and entertainment- the Deer Creek meeting with square dancing and line dancing instruction; the Salt Fork meeting with karaoke and the famous chicken dance, and the Maumee Bay meeting with member participation in the murder mystery drama.

I'm proud of the fact that in 1984, under the initiative of the OPA, a coalition of mental health professions, CMH agencies and boards, and consumers was formed. At that time it consisted of 10 major statewide organizations and was called the Fair Benefits Coalition. It has survived throughout these years, has expanded to over 30 organizations, and has become a major voice in addressing our common problems and concerns. It is now called the Coalition for Healthy Communities.

We have made great progress in the legislative arena, particularly with the creation in 1986 of OPPAC (Ohio Psychiatric Physicians' Political Action Committee). This has afforded us the opportunity to support and educate legislators about our issues. We are now considered a major player. We are at the table. Our advice and expertise is sought. We are asked to testify about pertinent legislation being considered. We are able to gain access to legislators.

The OPA membership is so fortunate to have such dedicated leaders. I have worked with 21 OPA presidents, many Representatives to the APA Assembly, and countless members of Council, Chapter presidents, and committee chairs. They spend an untold number of hours of personal time, giving up weekends, evenings, and sometimes a loss of income to unselfishly work for the good of psychiatry and your patients. It's that kind of dedication that makes the OPA what it is and recognized as one of the best APA District Branches in the country.

I, along with the OPA, have been most fortunate to have Linda Smith be associated with us for the past 14 years. Without her, we would not have the effective, efficient office operations we enjoy.

I'm excited for both the OPA and your new executive director. I know you will greet and work with that person in the same way you have with me. There are many challenges and opportunities ahead and I know this organization and its new Executive Director will rise to the occasion. I wish all of you well and continued success, both personally and professionally. .

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