Reflections on a Year as an Advion Emerging Leader
HUNT VALLEY, MD – January 29th, 2025 – Written by Misty Broussard, RVP of Operations
As I look back on my year as an Advion Emerging Leader, I am appreciative by how the experience has broadened my perspective on leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. This journey was more than just about refining traditional leadership skills; it was about stepping into a role where our voices could truly influence policy, empower others, and create meaningful change.
The program challenged me to engage in meaningful advocacy, share the stories that matter, and collaborate with some of the most passionate leaders in our field. Throughout the past year, I gained knowledge and skills that will shape not only my career but also how I approach leadership. Here are the key takeaways that defined my year as an Advion Emerging Leader.
Understanding the Power of Advocacy
One of the most eye-opening experiences I had was gaining first-hand exposure to the world of advocacy and how our collective voices can shape policy. Before this program, I knew advocacy was important—but I didn’t fully grasp how critical it is to influencing decisions at the highest levels.
Through my involvement, I saw the importance of raising awareness on key issues and policies that drive meaningful change. I learned that advocacy is about building bridges between our industry and the policymakers. This realization reinforced the importance of speaking up, engaging, and working together to influence decisions that benefit not just our industry, but society as a whole.
Making Our Voices Heard in Washington, D.C.
One of my most memorable moments was participating in legislative visits in Washington, D.C. These were not just meetings; they were powerful opportunities to make our voices heard.
I had the privilege of sharing not only my personal experiences but also the stories of our staff and patients directly with policymakers. These stories highlighted the challenges we face and the change we hope to see. It was inspirational witnessing how these experiences resonated with decision-makers, bridging the gap between policy and the realities on the ground.
This experience taught me that advocacy goes beyond data and numbers; it’s about connecting on a human level. Personal stories, when shared with passion and purpose, can inspire change in ways that facts and figures alone cannot.
Collaborating with Industry Leaders
Another invaluable take way as an Emerging Leader was the opportunity to collaborate with leaders across the industry. This program created a unique space for real conversations about the barriers we face and the solutions we envision.
By engaging with peers who brought diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, I gained new insights into the complex challenges our industry navigates every day. These conversations reaffirmed that while our struggles may vary, our goals are aligned—and that collaboration is key to driving progress.
These moments of shared learning and problem-solving were among the most enriching aspects of the program. They reminded me that no leader operates alone; success comes from building strong networks and leaning on each other’s strengths.
Building Tools for Future Leaders
Another gratifying experience was collaborating with my peers to develop tools and frameworks that would guide future participants. This was not only rewarding but also a reflection of the program’s long-term impact.
These discussions reinforced that leadership isn’t just about personal growth; it’s about ensuring that others are empowered to succeed. I felt a lot of pride knowing that our work would help shape the journeys of future leaders and a sense of responsibility to continue paving the path forward.
A Year of Advocacy, Impact, and Collaboration
As I move forward in my career, I carry with me the lessons I was fortunate to learn as an Emerging Leader. Advocacy will remain an important focus of my leadership journey, as I continue to use my voice to drive meaningful change.
This year has shown me that leadership is not just about individual accomplishments—it’s about collective impact. It’s about coming together, sharing experiences, and working toward solutions that create lasting change.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a transformative experience, and I look forward to continuing to reinforce the principles of advocacy, collaboration, and leadership in all that I do.