Dear SAA colleagues,
We are very pleased to share that the SAA Section Health Working Group has recently refreshed its charge and expanded its membership. The Working Group is charged with envisioning a new, remote-first model for SAA Sections, and its full charge is available on the SAA website (
Section Health Assessment Working Group). Working Group members include Stefanie Caloia, Alison Clemens, Michelle Ganz, Mary Grace Kosta, Susan McElrath, Matthew Peek, Julie Yamashita, Joyce Gabiola, and Lydia Tang (noting that Joyce and Lydia are group members through August 2025). This iteration of the Working Group began meeting in February and has focused its initial efforts on identifying shared principles, goals, and a work plan, as well as on planning efforts for continued SAA member feedback and engagement in the envisioning process.
As part of our work to envision the future of SAA Sections, the SHAWG will review feedback from members that has already been gathered; conduct focus groups to gain broader feedback and buy-in; regularly communicate with members; and eventually propose a re-imagined Section model for SAA Council's consideration. Toward the end of the Working Group's two year initial term, Working Group members will conduct an assessment of our work to determine whether a proposal should go to Council to extend or alter our charge.
We, as members of the Section Health Working Group, look forward to conducting this work together and to learning from you all as we propose a re-imagined Section model to SAA Council. Please feel free to contact any member of the Working Group with questions; Working Group contacts are listed in the
SAA Member Directory.
Best wishes,
Section Health Working Group Members
Stefanie Caloia
Alison Clemens
Joyce Gabiola
Michelle Ganz
Mary Grace Kosta
Susan McElrath
Matthew Peek
Lydia Tang
Julie Yamashita