OasisLMS

The Catalyst Leaders Program is a new leadership program designed to help PM&R physicians strengthen their ability to lead change through practical business and leadership skills. The program combines in-person and virtual learning focused on an introduction to change management and business skills, including project management, financial basics, and data-driven decision-making. Participants will work closely with experienced mentors to apply these concepts to real-world challenges within their own practices, receiving guidance and feedback throughout the experience. The program aims to empower members to advance the specialty and improve healthcare outcomes. 

Participants will engage in a six-month program focused on foundational business and leadership skills, including project management, budget and financial basics, using data to support PM&R, and change management. Each session will include faculty-led instruction followed by facilitated small-group discussions with assigned mentors and peers who will remain together throughout the program.

The program consists of five sessions, with the first session taking place in person at the Annual Assembly followed by four monthly sessions conducted virtually. 

Session 1: Strategic Thinking and Service Line Development
Format: In-Person
Date/Time: Thursday, November 12, 2026, 2:30-4 pm ET
Location: Annual Assembly, Orlando, FL
Faculty: Scott Laker, MD, FAAPMR and Janna L. Friedly, MD, MPH, FAAPMR 

Session 2: Project Management

Participants will be placed in a small group led by a mentor, who will guide the group through questions and discussions after each session. The same small-group cohort will remain together during all sessions, building meaningful connections and accountability throughout the experience.

Program Leadership

• Scott Laker, MD, FAAPMR
• Lennox McNeary, MD, FAAPMR

Small Group Mentors

• Lester S. Duplechan, MD, FAAPMR, Member-at-Large
• Theresa A. Gillis, MD, FAAPMR, Member-at-Large
• Marlis Gonzalez-Fernandez, MD, PhD, FAAPMR, Member-at-Large
• Rita G. Hamilton, DO, FAAPMR, Member-at-Large
• Keneshia M. Kirksey, MD, MBA, FAAPMR, 2022-2026 Chair, Membership Committee

• Participants must be members of AAPM&R.
• A physician currently in practice.
• Registered to attend the 2026 Annual Assembly in Orlando, FL.
• No previous business experience is required.

As a pilot program, the Catalyst Leaders Program is initially being offered complimentary to members. However, 2026 Annual Assembly in-person registration is required, as the program will launch in Orlando during the annual meeting.

As a pilot program, participant feedback will be requested.

Please contact info@aapmr.org with questions.