The American Health Law Association is governed by a 23-member Board of Directors comprised of nationally recognized health law professionals from diverse practice settings. Our leadership structure ensures that AHLA effectively serves its 12,000+ members while advancing our mission to deliver educational content and serve as a professional home for all who engage with health law.

Leadership Structure

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors oversees the Association's policies, procedures, and activities. Directors serve five-year terms and meet in person twice yearly, with additional virtual meetings. The Board works through committees focused on finance, governance, education, and membership - IDEA. 

View Current Board of Directors

Nominating Committee

This committee recommends candidates for Board positions, Fellows, and other leadership roles. Chaired by the current President, it includes past Presidents, the President-Elect, President-Elect Designate, and at-large members.

Practice Group Leadership

Our 17 Practice Groups are led by dedicated volunteers who identify educational topics, recruit speakers and authors, and facilitate the creation of valuable resources for members.

Specialty Councils

AHLA's councils address specific needs within the health law community:

• Development and Advancement Council: Develops policies and procedures related to gift solicitation and recognition, including planned gift guidelines.
• Dispute Resolution Service Council: Establishes policies and procedures for AHLA's Dispute Resolution Service and assists in promoting the service to members and non-members.
• Dispute Resolution Review Board: Rules on petitions to remove arbitrators in cases of conflicts of interest or conduct that calls fairness or impartiality into question.
• Journal of Health & Life Sciences Law Editorial Board: Identifies potential authors and topics that result in peer-reviewed law articles that are practical, timely, and well-analyzed.
• Women's Leadership Council: Coordinates opportunities for engagement of women within AHLA, facilitating professional development content and hosting networking events.
• Early Career Professionals Council: Coordinates opportunities for engagement of students and early career professionals, facilitating professional development content and hosting networking events.

Conference Planning Committees

These committees develop curriculum and select topics and speakers for AHLA's educational programs, ensuring relevant and timely content for attendees.

Leadership Pathway

AHLA offers multiple entry points for members interested in leadership roles:

1. Volunteer Opportunities - Contribute as a speaker, author, or committee member
2. Practice Group Involvement - Participate in Practice Group activities and projects
3. Council Membership - Join specialized councils matching your interests
4. Committee Leadership - Lead program planning or special initiatives
5. Board Service - Apply your experience and vision at the highest level

Get Involved

Leadership in AHLA offers valuable professional development, networking opportunities, and the chance to shape the future of health law. All leaders must demonstrate commitment to AHLA's values of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Start Your Leadership Journey

The path to leadership begins with volunteering. Visit our Volunteer Resource Center for comprehensive guides, FAQs, and tools to help you identify the right volunteer opportunities for your interests and career stage. This resource hub provides everything you need to begin building your AHLA leadership experience. 

View Current Opportunities on Volunteer Town Square

Learn About the Nomination and Appointment Process

Key Dates

• October 15: Nomination deadline for Board of Directors and At-Large Member of Nominating Committee
• November 15: Nomination deadline for general leadership positions
• April: New leadership announcements
• July 1: New leadership terms begin

Recognition and Awards

AHLA recognizes outstanding contributions through various awards, including the Founders Award, Fellows designation, IDEA Champion Award, and more.

Learn About Awards and Recognition Programs