01 Mar March 2025 Message from the Board President
A Vision for iaedp’s Future
Dear iaedp Community,
As I step into the role of President of the iaedp Foundation, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude, responsibility, and commitment. This is our 40th year anniversary, and for all this time, iaedp has been a trusted space for education, training, and advocacy in the field of eating disorders. It has brought together professionals from around the world, all dedicated to a shared mission: to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by eating disorders. That mission is what drives me every day.
First, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to Charlynn Small for her leadership, resilience, and dedication. Charlynn, you navigated complex challenges with grace and determination, and your work has left an undeniable mark on the Foundation. To the Board, our Executive Director Dawn Gannon, our support team, and the many volunteers who make iaedp’s work possible—thank you. Your passion and dedication are the heart of this organization.
I also want to take a moment to recognize and thank our board members who are rolling off this year:
- Ovidio Bermudez
- Rick Bishop
- Dena Cabrera
- Julie Holland
- Joel Jahraus
- Elisaveta Pavlova
- Adrienne Ressler
- Nicole Siegfried
Each of you has played a vital role in shaping the Foundation, bringing expertise, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to our field. Your leadership has strengthened this organization, and we are grateful for the impact you have made. Thank you for your years of service.
As we move forward, I encourage you to get to know the iaedp Board for 2025-2026 and feel comfortable reaching out to us. We are here to listen, collaborate, and support you. Our iaedp Foundation is a community, and we want every member to feel connected and valued. You can find the complete list of board members here: iaedp Leadership
For those of you who are new to the iaedp Foundation: Welcome! You are now part of a global network of professionals who believe in the power of knowledge, collaboration, and compassionate care. I encourage you to engage, ask questions, and be an active part of this community.
Some of you know that in 2016, I had the honor of serving as President of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). Throughout my career, I have worked to expand the global reach of our field, ensuring that education and training are accessible worldwide. There is sometimes a misconception that iaedp and AED are in competition—but the reality is that each plays a unique and essential role. I have seen firsthand how both organizations complement each other, and my focus now is on ensuring iaedp not only continues, but thrives. This is not about division—it’s about growth.
I know the past months have brought challenges, questions, and uncertainty. I hear you. Trust is not built overnight, and I am committed to transparency, accountability, and forward momentum. As we navigate this new chapter, my priority is to ensure that the Foundation operates with integrity, professionalism, and a shared commitment to the highest ethical standards.
One thing I won’t do is let negativity define us. There will always be voices of criticism, but I believe our focus must remain on what truly matters: strengthening iaedp, supporting each other, and making a real impact in the lives of those struggling with eating disorders.
As a Latin American leader in this field, I feel a deep responsibility to expand access to knowledge and training beyond borders. The iaedp Foundation has a unique opportunity to grow, reaching more clinicians, more communities, and, ultimately, more people who need help.
In the coming months, my leadership team and I will be working to:
- Enhance governance and organizational transparency
- Expand professional development and certification opportunities
- Strengthen iaedp’s international presence
- Foster a culture of learning, collaboration, and innovation
The iaedp Foundation belongs to all of us who believe in the power of education, advocacy, and community to transform lives. Let’s move forward together.
With gratitude and determination,
Eva Trujillo-ChiVacuan, MD, MET, FAED, CEDS, FAAP, Fiaedp
President