President’s Message
Dear ILSSAMT Community,
I had the distinct honor of attending the 2025 AMT Annual Meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, held from July 21–24. It was an enriching experience—one marked by professional development, meaningful connections, celebration, and a renewed sense of purpose. Events like these remind us why we do what we do, and why the AMT community remains such a vital part of our professional journey.
I would like to share some key highlights and reflections from this impactful gathering:
Inspiring Keynote Address:
The meeting opened with a powerful keynote by Dr. Sandra Dalton-Smith, whose insights on combating fatigue and burnout resonated deeply with attendees. Her message emphasized the importance of restorative practices and work-life integration, setting a thoughtful and energizing tone for the entire event.
Welcome Reception & Celebration:
The welcome reception was a joyful evening of music, dancing, and fellowship. It was a heartwarming mix of new connections and long-standing reunions that reinforced the importance of community, balance, and shared celebration in our profession.
Continuing Education (CE) Sessions:
A wide range of CE sessions offered opportunities for knowledge sharing and professional growth. These sessions not only expanded our understanding but also highlighted the enduring AMT value of lifelong learning and the pursuit of excellence.
State Society Leadership Sessions:
Leadership sessions provided a platform for thoughtful dialogue on governance, member engagement, and strategic innovation. These discussions underscored the importance of succession planning, collaboration, and the continued development of strong, adaptive state societies.
Great Lakes District Meeting:
Our regional meeting fostered collaboration among surrounding state representatives. Together, we explored regional challenges, exchanged best practices, and identified forward-thinking solutions. It was a valuable space for strengthening inter-state unity and sharing vision-driven strategies.
Annual Meeting Committee & EPS Subcommittee Work:
I had the privilege of serving as Chair of the EPS Subcommittee for the Medical Assisting Track. Working alongside dedicated colleagues, we curated high-quality continuing education content aligned with current industry needs. This experience was both rewarding and meaningful, as we contributed to the advancement of AMT’s educational mission.
Awards Banquet & Convocation:
One of the most moving moments of the meeting was the recognition of our peers at the Awards Banquet. I was especially proud to witness ILSSAMT delegate Josephine Hardin receiving the Silver Service Award to a standing ovation—an honor well deserved. Congratulations also to Great Lakes District Councilor Clara Boykin, whose continued contributions were rightfully recognized.
Annual Business Meeting & Town Hall:
The business meeting offered organizational updates, committee reports, and important governance decisions. It was inspiring to hear from AMT leadership candidates and to witness the installation of the new Board. The town hall session further demonstrated AMT’s commitment to transparency and member involvement.
Cross-Regional Networking & Lasting Memories:
Beyond formal sessions, the fellowship among delegates was both memorable and heartwarming. From Duquesne incline rides to handmade origami gifts and shared moments of laughter, these experiences showcased the warmth and inclusiveness that define our AMT community.
Attending the Annual Meeting not only renewed my professional commitment but also reminded me of the strength and heart of our organization. As ILSSAMT President, I was proud to attend alongside six outstanding delegates from Illinois. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our state society, and I remain dedicated to supporting AMT’s mission and future initiatives.
I look forward to interacting with you with the upcoming opportunities below:
2025 Great Lakes District Conference
September 11-13, 2025
Great Bavarian Lodge, Frankenmuth, MI
(flyer)
Hotel (link)
2025 ILSSAMT BOD Meeting
September 27, 2025
If you are interested in speaking or volunteering for CE, please contact me at illssamt@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Shaista Saiyed
ILSSAMT President
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote the National Standards for Allied Health Professionals within the State of Illinois, to provide opportunities to increase medical and technical knowledge for our members, and to support both National and State organizational goals.