Here at ILCA, we are grateful for the time and energy of those who serve on our Board of Directors. This week, the terms of three of our board members come to an end. Join us in sharing our congratulations and gratitude with these amazing ILCA volunteers. Today, we share our gratitude for Sara Gill who has served on ILCA’s Board of Directors for 6 years and resigns from her current term.
Sara L. Gill received her nursing degrees from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio (BSN, 1977; MSN, 1983) and the University of Miami (PhD, 1997). She has been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant since 1992. During her nursing career, Sara has worked in labor and delivery and mother/baby care. Currently, Sara is Professor and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio School of Nursing where she teaches, conducts research, and practices as a lactation consultant at a local hospital. She is a member of the San Antonio Breastfeeding Coalition and the Texas Breastfeeding Coalition. She served on the ILCA Research Committee. She has received funding for breastfeeding research and is the author of a number of breastfeeding manuscripts. Her current research focuses on improving breastfeeding initiation, duration, and exclusivity in vulnerable populations.
How did you first get involved with ILCA in a volunteer capacity?
Soon after becoming an IBCLC in 1992, I volunteered for the Independent Study Module committee serving for several years. I then served on the Research Committee again for several years. The outgoing Research Board member, Karen Wambach, encouraged me to serve as a Board Member.
What has been your most fulfilling accomplishment as a board member?
Increasing the visibility of evidence-guided practice including the research sessions, research presentations, and the growth of the poster presentations the annual conference. I am also grateful forthe use of evidence that has become infused in all things related to IBCLC practice.
Your most challenging?
Addressing the evidence/research needs of a global lactation community with cultural appropriate information.
What is next for you?
Continuing in my role as Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, mentoring the lactation consultants at the hospital where I practice and guiding graduate students as they learn to use evidence and/or create knowledge.
It’s been a pleasure serving on the board with you!!!
Sara, your clarity of thought and research focus has been a major contribution to ILCA. Enjoy your next life.