LOPA President & CEO, Community Educators Attend AMAT Conference

LOPA’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Brett Gordon, and two of LOPA’s Community Educators and Multiethnic Specialists, Kristie Gauthreaux and Shainne Williams, recently had the opportunity to attend the 32nd Annual Association for Multicultural Affairs in Transplantation (AMAT) Conference in San Diego, California.

The conference held from September 10-13, 2024 was an enlightening experience, full of educational value and relevant discussions. The topics covered were not only essential for Community Educators but also offered insights that could help shape the future of our organization. There were key recommendations made that, if implemented, could significantly enhance the impact of LOPA’s mission.

Beyond the knowledge shared, attendees had the opportunity to meet incredible people, each bringing their unique perspective to the conversation on organ donation awareness, reach, disparities, and impact. 

Kristie shared that “this experience expanded my understanding of the life-altering power of donation. As I looked around the room, what struck me most was the collective spirit of unity and purpose. It was amazing to see the faces of people from organizations across the nation in all shades with the same heart posture and purpose to help others.” 

Shai added, “It was truly encouraging to see other organizations across the country step up to address the issue of reducing the number of people on transplant waiting lists, especially within the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. Although BIPOC individuals represent a minority, they are disproportionately in need of transplants. I am excited to see our organization continue to serve as a lighthouse, providing education, support, access, and care to both donor families and those waiting on the transplant list.” 

Through their participation in this year’s AMAT Conference, Brett, Kristie and Shai were able to network with staff from other OPO's and transplant professionals from around the country to address disparities and share ideas to empower and engage communities and volunteers in furthering the commitment to serving and saving lives.

We look forward to implementing many of the valuable recommendations made in 2025 and are excited about the new opportunities these programs will provide our volunteers to join us in MAKING LIFE HAPPEN.