Note from the Associate Editorial Director: A place of belonging

by Linnea Archibald 

As some of you know, I recently returned from a three-month maternity leave. Though the transition back into working life hasn’t been without challenges, something has struck me in a new way about the ACDIS membership upon my return: It is a place of belonging not just professionally but personally. I’ve lost count of the number of emails I’ve received from members just to welcome me back, ask after my new baby, and wish me well. ACDIS members are welcoming and caring, and I know many of you have experienced this too. They care about each other not just as CDI professionals, but as people.  

Also, ACDIS membership includes so many tangible benefits that are well worth your investment. If you’ve ever read one of our white papers, downloaded a resource contributed by a fellow ACDIS member, read the articles in the bimonthly CDI Journal, leveraged the data in an annual CDI Salary Survey report, or attended a Quarterly Member Call, you’re well aware of the value and knowledge these resources impart.  

In my opinion, the intangible things are what make ACDIS membership truly special though. If you’ve ever been to an ACDIS conference, you’ve seen this firsthand. Members are always helping one another problem-solve, sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs, and investing in their CDI community enthusiastically. And they’re having fun while doing it—like our team so often says, there’s no party like an ACDIS party.  

Particularly in a world where most CDI professionals are working remotely (57.77% work 100% remotely, according to the most recent CDI Salary Survey), the connections—both professional and personal—that ACDIS membership offers are more important than ever. If you’re lonely in your role or struggling with the many challenges it presents, I’d encourage you to consider joining ACDIS. Leverage the educational offerings; connect with fellow members on the ACDIS Forum, at the conference, and through your local chapter; and reach out to the ACDIS team with questions. There’s a community waiting to welcome you; why not join in? 

If you’re still on the fence, make sure to check out our new video highlighting ACDIS membership featuring comments from our members and team! 

Editor’s note: Archibald is the associate editorial director, publications and membership, for ACDIS. Contact her at linnea.archibald@hcpro.com.