Complete Story
05/18/2025
GSACEP Presidential Address
MAJ Justine Stremick, MD, MPH&TM, FACEP
My name is Justine Stremick, and I am honored to serve as president of the Government Services chapter of ACEP over the coming year. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent and support you – especially during these uncertain times. My goal for this year is simple: to listen attentively and respond courageously to the threats and challenges that confront our mission.
Looking ahead, the chapter remains committed to finding new and meaningful ways to support you. Our webinar series continues to thrive, with recent topics covering advocacy, fellowship opportunities, and guidance tailored to new military matches and graduates. In addition, we’ve launched several new initiatives, including the Career Development Grant—currently accepting applications here —and the “Member’s Voice”, a platform for you to anonymously share comments and concerns. These tools help us stay better informed about the impact of new policies on our members and allow us to advocate more effectively on your behalf.
For those interested in getting more involved in the chapter, we warmly welcome your participation. Our committees are always looking for new perspectives, fresh ideas, and diverse talents. In particular, we are currently seeking members to help build our GSS Conference Planning committee and are looking for someone with a passion for communications to help reinvigorate our podcast. Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned leader, your voice and contributions can help shape our direction.
In the face of increasing funding constraints, it was inspiring to see so many of you at the annual Government Services Symposium in San Antonio. Set against the historic backdrop of the Alamo and the vibrant River Walk, the conference provided not only cutting-edge information on emergency medicine and operational readiness but also the invaluable camaraderie and connection that come with gathering in person across the tri-services and other federal roles.
Most recently, I had the privilege of attending the Leadership and Advocacy Conference, and I’m writing this message on my flight home from Washington, D.C. There, emergency physicians from across the country gathered to address Congress on the pressing issues that impact our ability to care for patients. As the plane lifted off and passed over the Pentagon and then Arlington National Cemetery, I was struck by a deep sense of gratitude and reflection on the sacrifices made by countless men and women in service to our nation. As military and federal emergency physicians, we are privileged to care for these brave individuals. It is a calling rooted in service, and one that we are proud to uphold.
I look forward to the year ahead and to working alongside all of you as we continue to advance our shared mission.
-Justine Stremick
