President’s Message Summer 2026

President’s Message: From Jesse Parks, DPM 

 

Dear CPMA Members,

I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and finding some time to spend with family and friends. As we head toward the fall, I remain proud of the many ways our members are getting involved in CPMA, their communities, and the profession. That willingness to participate and stay connected is an important part of what makes our association strong.

We saw that firsthand at the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games, where members, including our residents, volunteered their time to support the athletes. It was inspiring to see our residents contributing early in their careers and taking an active role in the future of our profession.

Within CPMA, our monthly member dinners continue to provide a valuable opportunity to build those connections. The relaxed setting allows us to exchange ideas and develop relationships with colleagues outside of the office. I encourage our younger members and those newer to practice to join us at an upcoming dinner and become part of these conversations.

Being engaged in our profession also requires us to remain informed and continue learning, which is why education and advocacy remain central to CPMA’s work. Our July Virtual Membership Meeting brought members together around the legislative issues affecting podiatric physicians in Connecticut. We’ll continue to keep members informed as these issues develop.

Until then, our educational programming will continue this fall with our next webinar on October 6, featuring Dr. Chelsea Viola and Dr. Khoa Nguyen, who will lead a discussion on the emerging role of human cortical bone screws in foot and ankle surgery.

Looking further ahead, one of our biggest opportunities to come together will be our Annual Symposium on December 4–5 at Water’s Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook. Planning is well underway, and I’m excited about the program taking shape. Having our members together in one place gives us the chance to learn from one another and strengthen the professional relationships that support us throughout the year. I hope you’ll join us.

The strength of CPMA comes from members who choose to take an active role. I appreciate everyone who has given their time and expertise this year, and I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made together.

Sincerely,

Jesse Parks, DPM
President, CPMA