07/31/2025

Notice of Proposed OAPA Bylaws Amendments - July 2025

The OAPA Membership Committee recently presented two proposals to support the next generation of PAs.

Extending OAPA Student Membership Duration

This proposal extends PA student memberships from the current two years to, instead, the length of their PA program plus six months, ensuring continuous access to resources throughout the student's education and their transition to professional practice. This change aims to enhance student engagement and increase the likelihood of post-graduation membership retention by providing consistent support and exposure to OAPA’s membership benefits as the student launches into their PA career.

This amendment is denoted in blue highlighting within the marked up version of the Bylaws (click link below to review).

Creation of a Pre-PA Membership Category

The establishment of a Pre-PA membership category in OAPA presents a unique opportunity to engage future PAs early in their career trajectory. By fostering relationships with Pre-PA students before they enter PA programs, OAPA can create a pipeline of engaged members who are more likely to remain active participants throughout their education and professional careers.

This amendment is denoted in yellow highlighting within the marked up version of the Bylaws (click link below to review).

The Board of Directors approved both of these proposals and their resulting Bylaws amendments at the July 19, 2025 meeting.

What Comes Next?

• Voting members of OAPA will be asked to cast their vote to adopt the Bylaws amendments.
• The voting period will be August 30-September 17, 2025.
• The vote will be conducted electronically.
• All current voting members as of August 30 will receive an email when the voting period opens with further instructions.
• Voters will be able to vote on the amendments independently, meaning that voters will have the option to approve both amendments, approve neither amendment, or approve one amendment but not the other.

Review the Proposed Bylaws Amendments Here

Thank you for your engagement in OAPA governance. Please contact oapa@ohiopa.com with any questions.

According to Article XVI of the OAPA Bylaws:

To be adopted, an amendment to these Bylaws shall be approved by the Board and by a majority vote of voting members participating in the vote. Proposed amendments to these Bylaws may be initiated by the Board and voting members of OAPA by submission to the Bylaws Committee in a manner determined by the Board. Amendments to these Bylaws shall be made by email, electronic, or written vote provided notice of proposed Bylaws amendments are sent to the membership no later than 30 days prior to the vote.