From the Desk of David Semanco VAAP Board President
David Semanco, President
As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the successes and milestones we achieved together in 2024. It was truly a remarkable year, filled with growth, collaboration, and impactful events that strengthened our mission and brought our community closer.
Looking Back at 2024
This past year, we welcomed a record-breaking number of members and partners into our VAAP family, with 42 Community Partners and 545 Individual Members—the highest ever in our history! Your commitment and involvement are the foundation of everything we do.
2024 was also an incredible year for events. As the proud sponsor of the Virginia Summer Institute for Addiction Studies (VSIAS), we saw a sold-out conference for both exhibitors and attendees. The three-day event, titled “Facing Challenges, Finding Solutions,” provided invaluable opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration.
We also want to extend heartfelt
thanks to our outgoing Treasurer, Jesalyn Moore, for her dedication and support of VAAP’s mission. Your contributions have left a lasting impact on our organization.
At the same time, we were thrilled to
welcome Willetta Wilson and Chrissy Chow as our newest board members. Their expertise and passion will undoubtedly help guide VAAP to even greater heights.
Looking Ahead
We’re kicking off the year with two key events. First, our Winter marks our inaugural winter training and featuring the highly anticipated ASAM Criteria Fourth Edition Training. Then, in March, we’ll host our Annual Meeting, a pivotal gathering for updates, training, and voting on key VAAP initiatives.
In July, VAAP will once again be the proud sponsor of VSIAS. This year’s theme, “Pathways to Progress: Recovery Across the Continuum,” will inspire new conversations and initiatives as we work together to advance the recovery field.
Jessica Swan, President-Elect
As I prepare to pass the torch in March to our incoming president, Jessica Swan, I am filled with confidence in her capable leadership and unwavering commitment to VAAP’s mission. It has been an honor to serve as your president, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of this organization under Jessica’s guidance.
Thank you for making 2024 a year to remember. I am deeply grateful for your dedication, partnership, and belief in the work we do together. Here’s to a bright future for VAAP and our shared commitment to supporting treatment programs and recovery communities.
Warm regards,
David Semanco
President, VAAP
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