TR: What plans and goals do you have for the Committee on Research over the next year and beyond?
Dr. Hiraki: My goal for the COR in the coming years is to foster global connections to advance and expand the positive impact of rheumatology research. My priority is to continue the successful initiatives from past years, such as the Rheuminations on Research Careers (RoRC) webinar series for early investigators—a great means for continued research mentorship within the ACR. I plan to build upon the COR’s prior successes by fostering global research connections and collaborations, as well as international opportunities for training and mentorship. Historically, the COR has focused on funding advocacy within the U.S. There is an opportunity for global funding advocacy via partnerships with other rheumatology organizations, such as . Today more than ever, we each feel how events around the globe impact us locally and personally. This can be a powerful tool for positive change.
TR: What prompted your interest in rheumatology?
Dr. Hiraki: My interest in rheumatology, and specifically pediatric rheumatology, is personal. My younger sister was diagnosed with lupus at age 12, which had a tremendous impact on our entire family. When I was in medical school, I worked with Earl Silverman, MD, who had been my sister’s pediatric rheumatologist, on a scholarly project. This research experience sparked my passion for research in pediatric rheumatology. Throughout my clinical training in Toronto and research training in Boston, I have been incredibly fortunate to benefit from the knowledge and generous mentorship of leaders in rheumatology research, including Brian Feldman, MD, MSc, Beth Karlson, MD, and Karen Costenbader, MD, MPH. I continue to be inspired by their compassion, diligence and thoughtfulness in how research informs their scholarly care. It’s by their example that I witnessed how research can positively impact the lives of patients like my sister.
TR: Anything else you’d like fellow ACR members to know?
Dr. Hiraki: I encourage ACR members to reach out with ideas and suggestions. As COR chair, I am acting on behalf of members’ interests and want to ensure each voice is heard. Volunteering for ACR committees has been a gratifying experience and an opportunity to positively impact and give back to the community that has helped me immensely in my own research and clinical career.
Vanessa Caceres is a medical writer in Bradenton, Fla.
