The individuals in the photos throughout the website do not reflect an endorsement but rather capture Alina Bridges engaging with the community.
Advocating for you, our specialty, our patients, and our future.
“I am honored to be on the slate of candidates for the Board of Directors of the AAD. We need strong leadership to drive meaningful change, and I would be privileged to serve in that role, and advance dermatology for all.
With over 25 years of experience in both academic and non-academic settings, I have worked alongside many of you to address the challenges facing our field-from declining reimbursements and insurance hurdles to regulatory burdens and drug access issues.
Learn about me and the election process at #aad2025election. Voting begins March 8-please make your voice heard! Your support means the world to me, and I would be truly honored to have your vote! I look forward to seeing you in Orlando!”
If we could shine a spotlight on members of our specialty and say to the world here is an example of a true star – physician, scientist, advocate, educator and proud mother and spouse – she would be a shining example of the best in dermatology.
I strongly encourage you to vote Alina into our esteemed society. She has earned it.
-Daniel Mark Siegel MD, MS, (Management and Policy), CPCD Clinical Professor of Dermatology, SUNY Downstate; Former President, American Academy of Dermatology
Almost every day, I think of an anecdote Dr. Bridges shared with me several years ago: When asked by a colleague in her first job out of residency how come she always got the interesting cases, she replied, "Everyone gets interesting cases; you just have to be on the look-out and recognize them as such!" Dr. Bridges has been such an incredible mentor and friend to me and so many others.
When we worked directly together as colleagues, Alina was never too busy to take questions about interesting cases (or mundane ones, for that matter!). I could always count on her and her exquisite dermatopathology sleuthing skills to help me solve the toughest of clinicopathologic correlation challenges. In addition, I am so grateful for the professional opportunities she has shared with me. Alina is kind, dedicated, energetic, and devoted to providing the highest level of care, and I admire her abilities, work ethic, and kindness tremendously. Thank you, Alina!
- Julia S. Lehman, MD
AAD Ballot Questions
What are the three most important values AAD board members should possess?
Passion: An unwavering commitment to advancing dermatology and improving patient care. Understanding and empathizing with the challenges faced by colleagues and patients, combined with a deep awareness of current issues in dermatology, enables informed and compassionate decision-making.
Leadership: The broader dermatology community, mentoring the next generation of dermatologists, and actively shaping the future of dermatology through advocacy. This involves selflessly championing the interests of both dermatologists and patients, addressing challenges facing the specialty, prioritizing the collective good over personal interests, and striving for accessible healthcare.
Professional integrity and collaboration: Upholding ethical standards and fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect, ensuring the sharing of knowledge and expertise that benefits the specialty and its patients.
What does a board member look like inside and outside the board room?
A board member exemplifies passion, visibility, enthusiasm, professionalism, integrity, commitment, and open-mindedness both inside and outside the boardroom.
Inside the board room, they engage in active listening, strategic thinking, thoughtful questioning, and collaborative decision-making, bringing diverse perspectives grounded in a deep understanding of dermatology, emerging issues, or developments, and dedication to the AAD's admission. They are prepared to contribute meaningfully to discussions.
Outside the boardroom, they serve as ambassadors for dermatology and AAD, advocating for dermatology and building relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. They understand that their actions reflect on the AAD and dermatology. By maintaining high ethical standards and demonstrating emotional intelligence, they build trust and inspire confidence among peers and the community, effectively stewarding the AAD's mission in all aspects of their role
Describe why you are the right candidate for this position at this time.
I bring extensive experience, passion, and unwavering commitment to the evolving needs of dermatology and the AAD. Through active involvement with the AAD and organized medicine, I understand the challenges and opportunities we face. I have worked to address Medicare reimbursement reform and prior authorization, reflecting my dedication to advocacy and healthcare policy.
My collaborative approach and leadership skills enable me to represent our members effectively. I have worked to elevate dermatology’s visibility in healthcare policy discussions, ensuring that our voices are heard. We need forward-thinking leadership that bridges the gap between clinical practice and broader challenges with reimbursement, healthcare access, and patient care.
I am prepared to contribute innovative solutions and strategic guidance to shape the future of dermatology and drive lasting, measurable change.
