Dear CareerSTAT Network,

We have made it through an unimaginably difficult year. When I took over as chair of the CareerSTAT Executive Committee in April, it was in the midst of the biggest healthcare crisis we’ve seen in a century. Eight months later, the crisis continues with a glimmer of hope emerging for 2021. While many of us are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and frankly exhausted, we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. With two effective vaccines developed and approved for emergency use authorization, and healthcare workers across the country beginning to receive them, we have much to celebrate.

What this year showed us was that supporting our frontline workers is more important than ever. Their tireless devotion and hard work have kept our nation afloat during this unprecedented challenge. An awakening had occurred across the nation. There is renewed energy and recognition that investing in frontline workers to make jobs better and more inclusive is critical moving forward.

Even though this year was challenging, that does not mean it was not without its bright spots. CareerSTAT continued to grow this year, with 48 new members, bringing our total membership to over 375 people. Additionally, we regularly added new materials to, launched the second cohort of the Healthcare Workforce Development Academy and hosted a virtual site visit with the Boston Healthcare Careers Consortium. Lastly, we hosted five webinars to gain insights and strategies from the network in dealing with the three-pronged health, economic, and racial justice crisis.

One other takeaway from this year for me was how resilient our network is. Even in the face of immense challenge and difficulty, this network was here for its members. And for that, I am very grateful. I encourage you to visit the Resource Center for tools and information and to reach out to your fellow members using the member directory. You can also reach out to CareerSTAT Executive Committee members for guidance, advice, or just to say hey! Our doors are always open.

Have a wonderful holiday and I wish you a happy and safe new year ahead!

Joyce McDanel
Chair, CareerSTAT Executive Committee