Applications are now being accepted to serve on the AAST Board of Directors as a Director-at-Large. Information about the application and nominations process can be found on theAAST website. If you are interested in applying, make sure you submit your application and supporting materials by Feb. 14th! If you would like to become more involved with the AAST, but you are unable to serve on the Board of Directors, make sure you keep an eye out for the Call for Volunteers in February. Volunteering on an AAST Standing Committee is a great way to network, gain experience and expertise, and contribute to the organization. This week's Director Spotlight features Elise Maher, RPSGT. Elise has served on the AAST Board of Directors since 2010. Read Elise's story below! Elise Maher

Elise Maher

I first joined the APT (the previous incarnation of the AAST) in the late 1990's. I was working as a research assistant-slash-sleep tech at a Harvard research lab investigating the relationship between sleep, dreaming, and cognition. To be honest, I wanted a professional membership that would look good on my resume and a discount on fees for the APSS convention being held in New Orleans (hottest conference ever!). I soon moved on to a clinical lab, and then into sleep center management. At the encouragement of Dr. Larry Epstein, I volunteered to be on a committee, and joined Standards and Guidelines. It was at this point in my career that I really needed the association, both for resources to use as a manager, and for the support that I needed to develop professionally. I later ran for a board seat to help to make a difference and to help forge direction for our ever-evolving field. I think it was fortuitous that my board participation coincided with the spearheading of the Home Sleep Testing movement in Massachusetts, where I reside. Again, as I volunteered my time, I got so much back from the association in support and resources. I have so enjoyed my participation in the AAST organization. It truly has been exciting, rewarding, and a highlight of my career.