The 2015 Chief Academy convened this month on the campus of the University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio, marking a move for the meeting from its 7-year home in Chicago. Dr. Vineet Mishra, Director of Mohs Surgery and Procedural Dermatology as well as Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the University of Texas Health Science Center – San Antonio, was co-chair and co-course director along with Dr. Ashish Bhatia and Dr. Jeffrey Hsu.

The intensive weekend workshop was first designed by dermatology program directors, department chairs, and former chief residents to provide a comprehensive overview in the elements of being an excellent chief resident. It includes instruction and discussion on leadership, administration, conflict resolution and management, and tools to further dermatologic medical education.

Dr. Mishra explains, “the future of our specialty depends on providing the best educational opportunities to our residents. By bringing together chief residents from various programs, the Chief Academy provides a unique platform to allow for open discussion that breeds camaraderie amongst the attendees and adds a powerful educational value in the process.”

This year’s Chief Academy registered a little under 50 chief residents, nearly a dozen faculty members, and 3 course directors. Faculty members ranged from private practice to academics, Mohs surgery to pediatric dermatology, and west coast to east coast. The meeting started off with a reception with Tex-Mex cuisine at the Hotel Contessa followed by a boat tour of the Riverwalk. The next day, the presentations were given and discussions held at the Cancer Therapy & Research Center, where Dr. Mishra’s clinic is housed.