Creating Deeper Connections: Meet our new Executive Director

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In this issue of eNews, we asked Executive Director, Georgina Altman, a few questions about the new role, her aspirations for the organization, and her take on some lighthearted topics.

What are you most excited about in this new role?

I’m genuinely thrilled to be back in the health care space, especially with an organization as thoughtful and mission-driven as the Alberta College of Family Physicians (ACFP). There’s something incredibly meaningful about being part of a team that champions the vital work of family physicians. Supporting those who support Albertans, whether in bustling urban clinics or rural communities, is a role that brings both responsibility and joy. And working alongside passionate staff and volunteers? That’s just the cherry on top.

How was your experience meeting some of the members at the ACFP Open House events?

It was an absolute delight! There’s nothing quite like seeing the ACFP community come together in one space, sharing stories, laughs, and a deep commitment to the future of family medicine. The Open House had all the right ingredients: good conversations, great people, and a shared purpose. It was especially meaningful to celebrate Terri Potter’s contributions – what a legacy. I left feeling inspired and incredibly welcomed.

Where do you want to see the ACFP one year from now?

One year from now, I hope the ACFP continues to grow as the trusted voice for family physicians in Alberta. I’d love to see us deepening connections across the province, amplifying member voices from all regions, and further establishing our role as a go-to resource for primary care insights. If policymakers are asking, “What does the ACFP think?” then we’re doing something right.

What’s your favourite way to collaborate with a team?

My ideal collaboration looks a bit like a creative jam session– with space for big ideas, a diversity of voices, and some real energy in the room. I thrive in environments where everyone feels empowered to contribute and where we can blend vision with action. In-person collaboration is especially powerful, it sparks those moments of “What if we tried…?” that can lead to real, innovative change.

What’s one thing you’re currently working on improving?

Right now, I’m focused on storytelling—specifically, how we can more effectively share the ACFP’s impact with those who shape health care policy in Alberta. There’s a compelling case to be made for team-based care, reducing administrative burden, and ensuring access to family physicians—and our role is to make that case impossible to ignore. These aren’t isolated issues; they’re interconnected, and our story needs to reflect that.

What is a fun fact about you?

I was co-producer for a collaborative Christmas Album that won an award from the Saskatchewan Country Music Association!

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could choose just one, it would be the power of instant understanding—the ability to hear someone’s experience and truly “get it” right away. In a world as complex as health care, that kind of empathy would be a game-changer for collaboration, problem-solving, and patient care. Plus, imagine how efficient meetings would be!

What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever been?

The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland—hands down. There’s something hauntingly beautiful about walking beneath those twisted, ancient beech trees. It feels like stepping into another world—timeless, mysterious, and quietly powerful. Standing there, you can’t help but reflect on legacy, resilience, and the stories rooted in the land. Honestly, it reminded me a bit of family medicine—deeply rooted, quietly heroic, and full of character.

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