By Brandy J. Reed, M.B.A., R.T.(R)(MR), 2024-2025 ISMRT President
In 2006, a significant career move brought me across the country to MD Anderson, a transition that ignited my passion for MRI and set me on a path toward leadership within the International Society for MR Radiographers and Technologists (ISMRT). Despite having worked as a technologist for many years, I had never heard of ISMRT or even understood what an abstract was. My supervisor at MD Anderson saw my enthusiasm for MRI and encouraged me to write an abstract on our research projects. I had no idea what an abstract entailed at the time, but I dove in with excitement. To my surprise, that first abstract won a proffered paper award, I was so excited!
As I continued to write abstracts and attend ISMRT conferences, I noticed the strong bonds among the members, signified by the ribbons they wore. The camaraderie and shared passion drew me in, and I knew I wanted to be part of this incredible community, I wanted to join “their club.” Being a member of a study group or committee wasn’t a secret club but an opportunity for growth and knowledge. After years of active participation, and not just a meeting attendee, that led to my nomination to the Governing Board (then known as the Policy Board). This opened doors to travel and connections with like-minded friends and professionals worldwide that can answer your MRI questions.
Looking back, I never envisioned myself as President of ISMRT, but I am immensely grateful that my colleagues saw potential in me and trusted me with this leadership role. The experiences I’ve had with ISMRT are truly heartwarming, and the connections I’ve made are invaluable. Leading this society is an honor, and I am excited to continue fostering the growth and development of our community.
I look forward to expanding our society and growing our membership worldwide. While we are based in the USA, I am committed to seeing our Divisions and Chapters become more active in their local communities, raising the standard for MRI technologists. Internationally, I am excited to witness our growth in regions like Africa, India, Japan, and other countries where our presence has historically been limited.
One of my primary goals is to support the education of MR radiographers and technologists globally. We need to tailor our educational offerings to meet the specific needs of different regions and make them accessible to all. Not everyone can attend the annual meeting, so we must establish and support new chapters and divisions that can host local events. Additionally, incorporating virtual components into our meetings and workshops will allow more members to benefit from the knowledge shared by others.
I also wish to create a sustainable position for Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). While I am still exploring what this looks like, sponsorships could play a crucial role in achieving our goal of providing global education. Additionally, I would like to see a flexible membership payment plan and allow people to join at any time of the year, making it easier for everyone to be part of ISMRT.
I am excited for this opportunity and challenge in my career, focusing my presidency on expanding our global presence, enhancing education and safety standards, and promoting collaboration within the MRI community. By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities, we can ensure ISMRT remains a global leader in MR education and MRI safety. The journey from passion to leadership has been incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to the exciting future ahead for ISMRT.
Brandy J. Reed, M.B.A., R.T.(R)(MR)
2024-2025 ISMRT President
This is a very powerful statement and it has inspired me.
Before entering into ISMRT, I only taught I am a radiographer who is known for pressing the button. ISMRT have changed the narrative for me. I am James an entry-level radiographer from Ghana. Through attendance of the ISMRT conferences, I got to have different perspective into medical imaging and I currently want explore them. I believe someone reading this will be like ‘how can we support you?’ I am currently looking for sponsorship for the USA conference and I believe I will get the support from you all.
Congratulations, Brandy! I wish you all the success in your new role. I am committed to providing all possible support for the formation of the India division. I had the pleasure of working with you in ISMRT London AMPC, and we also met during the ISMRT at Singapore. I have been impressed by your remarkable leadership qualities. Hence I am confident that your leadership will take ISMRT to the next level.
Congratulations, Brandy! I wish you all the success in your new leadership Role.
“`My journey as an undergraduate Radiography student to ISMRM/ ISMRT.
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The revelation of the international chapter for the ISMRM/ISMRT society and the forthcoming 2024 Annual Meeting in Singapore piqued my interest. However, financial constraints loomed large. Thankfully, Andrew Webb’s benevolence eased my path, granting me access to the society as a trainee member. With Petronella Samuels’ guidance, I embarked on crafting my abstract, “The Role of Magnetic Resonance in the Diagnosis of Berry Aneurysm: A Case Report.” This abstract was based on my clinical experience during my third year attachment at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in the southern part of Ghana, where I gained hands-on experience with MRI despite the lack of such opportunities in my home region.
Despite the challenges of being a novice in research, the unwavering support of mentors like Mrs. Petronella Samuels and Dr. Nashirudeen Mumumi propelled me forward. Their encouragement transformed hurdles into milestones, culminating in my abstract’s acceptance and the coveted JAK Award for Professional Development.
Yet, the journey to Singapore posed another financial hurdle. Through the sage counsel of Prof. Godwin Obogole, Dr. Nashirudeen Mumuni and the serendipitous support of the ISMRM/ISMRT together with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, my dream of attending the Annual Meeting materialized. In Singapore, the Unity Meeting proved illuminating, fostering connections with global experts and enriching my understanding of MRI research. As the moment of my presentation approached, nerves set in, but the reassurance of mentors and the constructive feedback of peers fortified my resolve.
Also I’m happy to inform you that my Clinical Research Case Report abstract, I presented at Singapore ISMRT Annual meeting as been accepted to be published by one of the National local journal in Ghana named ” Ghana journals of Science, Technology and Development in their next edition.
I will be graduating this year and I will like to purse my education to the higher level in the following area of interest: MRI, Al in medical Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, Neuroimaging or Biomedical imaging.
Also I will like to attend the next year’s ISMRM/ ISMRT Annual meeting at USA but the problem is the cost which involves the Visa application fees, conference registration fees, the round flight ticket to US and accommodation during my stay at US for the conference.
I will be grateful if I can get scholarship or sponsorship which will cover all this cost to i will be able to attend conference at Hawaii, USA to present an abstract again on MRI safety in Ghana.
Best regards.
Abdul Rashid Karim.