Insight Matters
Winter 2005

Candidate for Treasurer:
Joseph A. Locala, M.D.

Position Statement
In my decade of service to professional organizations, I have witnessed the constant struggle to define issues and the challenge of finding solutions to the problems that plague our field of psychiatry. Yet there has never been a time when I've been more excited or optimistic about the future. Parity legislation has advanced far beyond our expectations and grassroots advocacy efforts have blossomed throughout Ohio. We continue to build alliances with patient groups and other professional organizations. The fires of crisis appear to have forged a stronger and more unified OPA.

Organized psychiatry is taking a stand - for the welfare of our patients and pride in our professional identity. However, we have much more to accomplish. In this era of change, a new OPA must emerge under the guidance of determined leaders. I am honored by this nomination for treasurer and wholeheartedly welcome the opportunity to continue my devoted service to the OPA. I am confident that I possess the personal skills and strength of character to fulfill this duty.

Financial strength is integrally linked to the future success of the OPA. A fiscally sound organization provides the resources necessary for implementation of its priorities and the realization of well-planned goals. The responsibility of the treasurer is not merely to function as banker and accountant. The job requires a financial planner who will anticipate future needs of the organization and pro-actively set aside funds to accommodate them.

So how do we generate those funds? I would avoid attempts to increase revenue with increased dues. Higher dues may result in loss of membership, which we can ill afford. The majority of our committees already perform admirable work with lean budgets; budget cuts are not the answer. As treasurer, one of my primary goals would be identification of new sources of appropriate revenue. In fact, during my tenure as OPA program chair, I've diligently worked to develop new educational programs, which will serve the dual purpose of generating revenue.

Why should you place your confidence in me as treasurer? I bring a wealth of experience and organizational knowledge to the position. As an active member of OPA Council and multiple committees for eight years, I've participated in the development of our current strategic plan and policies. I've gleaned an in-depth knowledge of the workings of the OPA and an historical perspective of the association. I've risen through the ranks in local psychiatric groups and served as president of both the Cleveland Psychiatric Society and Cleveland Consultation Liaison Society. I've served on the NAMI Ohio Board of Trustees and both the NAMI-Metro Cleveland Board of Trustees and Medical Advisory Board. My experiences in these professional organizations have further honed my abilities to plan with a clear vision, develop balanced budgets, review financial statements, and to act decisively on behalf of the membership. I believe that these are the attributes required to stand as a leader at the helm of the OPA.

Thank you for your consideration. It would be a privilege to serve as your OPA treasurer.

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