Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2024

6 • Massage Therapy Journal

Letter from the

President

The Strength of Community Hello AMTA Peeps,

I hope as I write my first letter to you in Massage Therapy Journal that you are well and looking forward to Spring! The season of renewal is approaching, and as you settle deeper into the new year, I’m settling into the role of being your 2024–2025 AMTA President. I am humbled and honored to have your trust. We All Rise Spring is always a very active time for AMTA. Our new fiscal year begins March 1. Chapter volunteers are buzzing around as they prepare for elections and local annual meetings. Of course, that’s all in addition to caring for the clients who understand the benefits of massage therapy and keep us busy year-round. When I think back on the start of my career as a massage therapist—like the first day I walked into class at my massage school or the first AMTA event I attended as a massage student—it never feels like it was too long ago. But, then I do the math and realize I’ve been in this profession for 20 years … WOW! That is 20 years of AMTA community. That is 20 years of watching our profession grow alongside our association. I have witnessed firsthand the continual raising up of AMTA and AMTA members over the years. So, as I look toward this upcoming year as your President, here are some words that will help guide me: enlightenment, collaboration, productiveness, inspiration and allyship. AMTA is your association, our association, and the National Board is committed to continuing our mission of lifting up both the entire profession and members. I encourage you all to settle into this upcoming season by renewing your commitment to your practice, your profession and, maybe most importantly, yourself. You are an integral part of this community, a community

that was, is and will continue to be built and reinforced by the passion every AMTA member brings to the massage profession, a profession we know helps people be their best selves. Remember, there is no better place to feel and experience this community than our National Convention. This year, we’ll gather September 12–14 in Tampa, FL. I hope to see and meet some of you there. Or, connect with local massage therapists at one of your Chapter events. In the meantime, I’d like to encourage you to take a few moments as we move through this lively season … a moment to celebrate the positive impact we as an association have on the massage profession. A moment to appreciate one another. And above all, a moment to recognize that you matter! committed to continuing our mission of lifting up both the entire profession and members.” “AMTA is your association, our association, and the National Board is

ENGAGE WITH AMTA AMTA’S local chapters are a great place to start getting involved. Find yours at amtamassage.org/ chapters.

It takes ALL of us! In heartfelt service, Kim

P.S. Here’s a fun fact: On the way to my office, I pass the factory where those little colorful marshmallow Peeps are produced!

Kim Kane Santos AMTA President

amtamassage.org/mtj