David Fassler, M.D., candidate for APA Treasurer

I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist practicing in Burlington, Vermont. I'm also a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Vermont. On a local level, I serve as the Treasurer of the Vermont Psychiatric Association, and as President of the Vermont Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

It's been an honor to serve as APA Treasurer. As a member of the Board, I've tried to focus on advocating for our members and our patients. I've served as a spokesperson for the APA on a wide variety of clinical and research issues, including children and medication, emotional reactions to war and terrorism, the juvenile death penalty and enhancing access to data from clinical trials. I've also testified on our behalf before the FDA and several Congressional Committees.

As Treasurer, I've tried to simplify the information about the APA's financial status for the Board, the Assembly and our members. I've also chaired the Audit Committee and participated in the Budget and Finance, Investment Oversight and Long Range Planning Committees. In the process, I've gained a working knowledge of the APA's complex financial structure, current fiscal challenges, and potential future opportunities.

My current priorities for the APA are as follows:

• Maintain the fiscal stability and security of the APA

• Focus on the practical, concrete needs of our members

• Strengthen our ties with our allied and affiliated psychiatric organizations

I have very much enjoyed serving on the APA Board. I believe I've been a consistent and effective spokesperson and advocate for the organization. If re-elected Treasurer, I would look forward to continuing my efforts on behalf of our members, our patients and our profession.