Clinical and Health Services Research Committee Self Nomination for Caitlin Collins

Dear Members of the Selection Committee,

I am writing to express my interest in joining the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Clinical and Health Services Research Committee of the Association for Academic Surgery (AAS). My career as a trauma surgeon is dedicated to advancing health equity, with a focus on addressing disparities in care and improving outcomes for underserved populations.

My research with the UCSF Wraparound Project centers on the intersections of health equity, social determinants of health, and gun violence prevention. These efforts have deepened my understanding of the systemic barriers in healthcare and the importance of community-driven interventions. In addition, I co-developed and delivered the Social Justice and Health Equity curriculum for UCSF surgery residents, reinforcing the importance of education in fostering inclusivity and empowering future surgeons. My experience supporting the Wraparound Project’s evaluation efforts and my broader research in health services have equipped me with strong qualitative and quantitative skills essential for advancing clinical care and public health initiatives.

I am eager to contribute to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Clinical and Health Services Research Committee, collaborating with colleagues to further the AAS’s mission of promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and evidence-based practices in academic surgery.

Thank you for considering my self-nomination.

Sincerely,

Caitlin Collins, MD, MPH

2

2020