Reflecting on a Year of Leadership and Looking Ahead

On October 28, NCMS members gathered virtually for the 2026 Annual Business Meeting, featuring updates from NCMS and the NCMS Foundation, leadership remarks and the announcement of election results.

A highlight of the evening was the final presidential address from Carl Westcott, MD, who reflected on his year as NCMS President and the Society’s work over the past year.

NCMS extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Westcott for his leadership, dedication and commitment to serving North Carolina’s physicians, PAs and the patients they care for. We thank him for his service and contributions to the Society throughout his presidency.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to announce the results of the 2026 NCMS elections. Selected through the nominations process and elected by NCMS members, these individuals will help shape the future of NCMS and represent the medical community in important leadership roles. 

NCMS Board of Directors

  • President-Elect: Tracy Eskra, MD
  • Secretary Treasurer: Claude Jarrett, MD
  • Region 1 Representative: Christopher Grubb, MD
  • At-Large Representatives: A. Jenna Beckham, MD; E. Rebecca Hayes, MD; Caroline Wilds, MD

NCMS Foundation Board of Trustees

  • Trustees: Varnell McDonald-Fletcher, PA-C, MHS, EdD; Michelle McMoon, PA-C, PhD; Ashley Sumrall, MD

American Medical Association (AMA)

  • Delegates: Arthur “Art” Apolinario, MD; E. Rebecca Hayes, MD; Eileen Raynor, MD; Karen Smith, MD
  • Alternate Delegates: Ronald Laney, MD; Carl Westcott, MD

NCMS Nominating and Leadership Development Committee (NLDC)

  • Region 1: T. Daniel Crowder, MD, PhD
  • Region 2: Hans Arora, MD; Damian McHugh, MD; Suneel Parvathareddy, MD
  • Region 3: Katie Borders, MD; Deanna Didiano, DO; Sankalp Puri, MD

NCMS congratulates all newly elected leaders and thanks them for their willingness to serve and their continued commitment to North Carolina’s medical community.