By Dr. Colleen Morley, DNP, RN, CCM, CMAC, CMCN, ACM-RN, FCM

In the ever-evolving landscape of case management, the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) stands as a beacon of excellence and progress, owing significantly to the unwavering dedication of its members, volunteers, and leadership. As we reflect on our journey and look toward the future, it is vital to pause and express our profound gratitude to these pillars of our organization. 

Gratitude is more than a sentiment at CMSA; it is a foundational value that shapes our culture. Recognizing and appreciating the efforts of our members, volunteers, and leaders fosters a positive and collaborative environment. It encourages continued involvement and inspires others to contribute their best. This culture of gratitude strengthens our community, enhancing our collective ability to face challenges and seize opportunities. 

Celebrating Our Members: The Heart of CMSA 

At the core of CMSA are our members, a diverse group of professional case managers, across disciplines and work settings along the entirety of the healthcare continuum, who are committed to the health and well-being of the populations we serve and to advancing the practice and profession of case management. Your expertise, experience, and passion for patient advocacy and healthcare transformation propel CMSA forward. Each member's unique perspectives and contributions enrich our community, indeed your community, making it more dynamic and robust.

We are immensely thankful for YOU, our members, who actively engage in our initiatives, share their knowledge and collaborate to enhance the practice of case management. Your dedication is not just to our profession but to the broader vision of optimized health and wellness for all individuals. 

Honoring Our Volunteers: The Driving Force 

Volunteers are the lifeblood of CMSA. You bring energy, commitment, and a wealth of experience and perspectives to our organization. From serving on committees and boards to helping organize events and educational programs, your contributions are invaluable. Selfless individuals who dedicate their time and talents to ensure that CMSA's goals are met and its values upheld on a national and local level.

Our gratitude extends to each volunteer who has played a part in our numerous initiatives. Your efforts in advocacy, education, and resource development have been instrumental in advancing our mission. Your willingness to serve is a powerful testament to your dedication to the case management community. 

Acknowledging Our Leaders: Visionaries of Change 

CMSA's volunteer leaders are the strategists and visionaries guiding our organization. You play a critical role in shaping our policies, steering our direction, and ensuring that we remain at the forefront of case management practice. Your leadership is characterized by foresight, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the profession. 

 We extend our deepest thanks to these leaders who volunteer their time and expertise. You inspire us with your passion and drive, challenging us to continually improve and innovate. Your leadership not only benefits CMSA but also contributes significantly to the field of case management at large.

At CMSA, we are profoundly grateful for the dedication, expertise, and passion of our members, volunteers, and leaders. Your contributions have been instrumental in our success and will continue to be the driving force behind our future achievements. Together, we are not just a professional organization; we are a united community committed to the advancement of case management, advocating for patients, and shaping the future of healthcare. 

Thank you for being an integral part of CMSA. Your commitment, enthusiasm, and support are the reasons we continue to grow and excel. Let's move forward with gratitude, celebrating our achievements and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

Haven’t joined yet? Tomorrow is the perfect day to do it! Take advantage of CMSA’s special Black Friday deal of 1-month FREE when you join on Friday, November 24th. No code necessary, just join TOMORROW: https://cmsapmg.wpenginepowered.com/membership/individual-membership/

(Anyone who joins CMSA on Black Friday, November 24th will receive a confirmation email by November 30th verifying that their renewal date has been extended from November 24, 2024 to December 24, 2024!)

Bio: Dr. Colleen Morley DNP RN CCM CMAC CMCN ACM-RN FCM is the Associate Chief Clinical Operations Officer, Care Continuum for University of Illinois Health System and the current President of the Case Management Society of America National Board of Directors. She has held positions in acute care as Director of Case Management at several acute care facilities and managed care entities in Illinois, overseeing Utilization Review, Case Management and Social Services for over 14 years; piloting quality improvement initiatives focused on readmission reduction, care coordination through better communication and population health management. Her current passion is in the area of improving health literacy. She is the recipient of the CMSA Foundation Practice Improvement Award (2020) and ANA Illinois Practice Improvement Award (2020) for her work in this area. Dr. Morley also received the AAMCN Managed Care Nurse Leader of the Year in 2010 and the CMSA Fellow of Case Management designation in 2022. Her 1st book, “A Practical Guide to Acute Care Case Management”, published by Blue Bayou Press was released in February, 2022. Dr. Morley has over 20 years of nursing experience. Her clinical specialties include Med/Surg, Oncology and Pediatric Nursing. She received her ADN at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL; BSN at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, FL, MSN from Norwich University in Northfield, VT and her DNP at Chamberlain College of Nursing.