At the Columbus Medical Association and Affiliates (CMAA), we believe learning is more than just a stage in life — it’s a mindset. It doesn’t end when you graduate or put on your white coat. The drive to continue learning lays the foundation for strong leadership, sparks innovation, and bridges generations of healthcare professionals. That’s why this summer, we’ve embraced continuous learning not only as something we provide — but as something we live, grow through, and celebrate together.

In my May message, I shared that our organization had begun a journey to evolve — to remain a vital, trusted partner to our physicians and the broader community. We started by engaging a new public policy partner, who has already provided invaluable insights during these turbulent times. We also partnered with Dr. Mrunal Shah to learn directly from our physician members and ensure your voice is heard. He has held a number of one-on-one and group meetings and shared meaningful feedback. Stay tuned for more opportunities to share your perspective.

On June 30, we kicked off the next phase of this journey with our first visioning session with Just Bloom, an award-winning organization specializing in creativity and leadership development. CMAA staff, physician Board members across the affiliates, as well as community Board participants came together for a thought-provoking workshop designed to expand how we think, lead, and collaborate. These sessions will continue to guide us — using science-backed methods — to unearth a vision that both modernizes and honors our legacy.

That same spirit of lifelong learning was reflected on June 26, as we celebrated 17 physicians graduating from the Physicians Leadership Academy (PLA). These individuals dedicated nine months to personal growth, reflection, and peer learning — emerging with tools to lead with intention and compassion. 

Education also drives our work with the next generation. Our Made for Medicine students took their learning on the road in June, embarking on our first-ever HBCU Medical School and College Tour. Fifteen students traveled to Nashville and Atlanta, visiting historically Black colleges, universities, and medical schools — and connecting with professionals who reflected their aspirations. It was more than a tour — it was a transformative experience rooted in representation, access, and belief in their potential.

We continue to be inspired by the CMA Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council, a student-led body of 13- to 18-year-olds learning the ins and outs of philanthropy and grantmaking. These young leaders are gaining firsthand experience in how community investment can shape health and equity for years to come.

Our commitment to education and growth extends to medical school. We’re especially excited about our upcoming CMA Medical Student Specialty Fair this October. By polling medical students about their interests and inviting physician members to share their stories and insights, we’re creating a meaningful, two-way exchange that connects curiosity with experience.

Our CMA Practice Managers Group continues to convene for educational sessions that provide real-world value. These gatherings have featured several of our strategic partners in legal and communications — all collaborating to support physician practices across Central Ohio.

While COTS leaders continue to champion life-saving disaster preparedness funding, they also remain focused on what they do best: preparing our emergency responders to act swiftly and save lives. Find out more about their educational offerings here. 

As we continue the essential work of planning for the future of our organization, we never lose sight of the day-to-day value CMA provides: empowering physician, supporting practices, and nurturing growth at every stage.

Learning will remain a constant in everything we do — not just because it prepares us for tomorrow, but because it brings us together today.

Last week, the Youth Advisory Council held its Senior Celebration at Topgolf Columbus to honor our six graduating seniors.

The seniors and other members of the Council came together one last time before the end of the school year, allowing them to play fun rounds of golf, eat tasty tacos, and socialize with fellow council members and the new Youth Council Coordinator.

This was a memorable send-off as they enter the next chapter of their lives and leave a lasting impact on the Youth Advisory Council and their communities.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

The Council is accepting applications for students 8th to 11th grade! Learn more here.

The new ADAMH Franklin County Crisis Care Center is set to open this summer with proud support from the Columbus Medical Association Foundation.

CMAA CEO Tracy Davidson joined the ADAMH Board, Franklin County Commissioners, Columbus city leaders, and additional partners and funders to celebrate the center at the ribbon-cutting ceremony in Franklinton on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. The CMA Foundation was part of the public/private partnership that funded the $60 million facility by providing a grant of $500,000.

Former CMA CEO Dr. Robert Falcone was deeply involved from the beginning in ensuring central Ohioans have access to efficient mental health resources. He was a project team leader on the Franklin County Task Force on the Psychiatric Crisis and Emergency System (PCES) convened to strategize ways to improve psychiatric emergency services in Franklin County. In 2016, the task force concluded the county needed a comprehensive, collaborative system of crisis care for individuals experiencing mental health and/or addiction emergencies. From that recommendation came years of planning and fundraising to build the Franklin County Crisis Care Center. Dr. Falcone later served on the planning board for the facility and was able to tour the construction site in 2024.

The center will provide 24/7 services for all adults dealing with mental health or addiction issues in Franklin County. Two observation units will open this summer with additional services opening in phases over the next two years. By 2027, the site will include an urgent care, family resource center, and offer long-term support for people needing extended treatment. More information on the Crisis Care Center can be found on their website.