Where would we be without AAA? That was the question that Dr. Lisa Lee asked jokingly to start our interview. But while reflecting on her time as a member it became an honest question. For her, AAA has been more than just an academic home—it has been a community that embraced her, encouraged her, and propelled her forward, even when she questioned her own place within it.
Dr. Lee’s journey into the anatomical sciences began with an undergraduate gross anatomy course, where an encounter with a prosected human cadaver ignited a lifelong fascination. “I just absolutely fell in love with it,” she recalls. That passion led her to become a teaching assistant, then to pursue a Ph.D. in anatomy and cell biology with the singular goal of teaching anatomy for the rest of her life. Along the way, she delved into cancer research, working with zebrafish embryonic models, where she developed a deep appreciation for embryology, histology, and microscopy. “I kind of fell into various subjects that I ended up loving, which is incredibly lucky.”
Despite her deepening expertise and growing body of work, Dr. Lee did not join AAA until she was well into her career as an assistant professor. It was a mentor, Dr. Douglas Gould, who guided her toward the association. “He was the first and most significant mentor in the anatomical sciences education field,” she explains. Under his influence, she became involved with AAA, where she found not just a professional organization, but a network of kindred spirits. “It was really AAA where I felt like I was part of a community of like-minded people who were just so welcoming.”
Her involvement quickly escalated when, within a year of joining, she was invited to serve on the Professional Development Committee. “Out of nowhere,” she says, still somewhat incredulous. “I don’t know how I was chosen.” That sense of disbelief, that quiet voice questioning whether she truly belonged, is something nearly every AAA member can relate to. “Despite all the imposter syndrome I had, the committee listened to me. I felt highly valued.”
Dr. Lee’s leadership trajectory continued as she immersed herself in AAA’s initiatives, including serving on committees, developing Virtual Microscopy Database (VMD), and mentoring emerging anatomists through innovative programs such as AERI (Anatomy Education Research Institute) and DELTA (Developing and Elevating Leaders with Tools for Advancement). Now, as she takes on the role of chair for the Publications Committee, she once again finds herself in a familiar place: honored yet feeling as though she has somehow tricked the board into giving her the position. “No, absolutely not,” she laughs when asked if she believes she deserves it. “Are you kidding? No way.” And yet, her colleagues would argue otherwise.
During the most recent Anatomy Connected meeting in Portland, OR, that sentiment was echoed by many. Attendees, ranging from early-career professionals to established educators, shared heartfelt stories of how Dr. Lee had impacted their careers. From offering a listening ear at just the right moment to opening doors to professional opportunities, her influence was both personal and far-reaching. Others spoke of how her authenticity and willingness to share her own struggles gave them permission to embrace their own vulnerabilities. In a field that can often feel isolating, Lisa created bridges. The collective appreciation was palpable, underscoring that her humility, though endearing, is at odds with the profound effect she’s had on the AAA community.
Under the guidance of the past chair, Dr. Kem Rogers, Dr. Lee has been preparing for this leadership role throughout the past year. “Kem has put in this safety net for me to try different things and fail but also go to him for help at any time,” she says. It is this culture—one that fosters bravery, embraces failure, and nurtures growth—that has made AAA stand apart from other scientific associations. “You don’t feel as supported at other conferences. It is not uncommon to be grilled by the established researchers, which can feel hostile.” In contrast, AAA has cultivated an environment where failure is not only accepted but celebrated as an essential part of development. The wildly popular “Board of Failure” at Anatomy Connected ‘24 in Toronto was proof of that, with members enthusiastically sharing their missteps and lessons learned.
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Dr. Lee’s AAA experience, both as a mentee and as a mentor herself. She fondly recalls the moment when one of her abstracts was selected for a platform presentation for the first time—a moment of validation that affirmed her place in the field. Years later, she would experience the same pride when her graduate students were selected for platform or poster presentation awards. “Seeing them get hooked, keep coming back, and then later becoming my colleagues—that cycle of mentorship is just incredible.”
It is through AAA that Dr. Lee has built a network of peer mentors and collaborators—people who have supported her, encouraged her, and, as she puts it, “pushed me forward even when I was exhausted and feeling like I was at the bottom of a pit.” That encouragement culminated in her recent promotion to full professor, a milestone she dedicates to those who lifted her up. “Had it not been for them, I don’t know if I would have gathered up enough motivation to put my promotion packet together.”
As Dr. Lee steps into this new leadership role, she reflects on the guidance of those who have mentored her, the support of her peers, and the impact of the AAA community. While she acknowledges there is still much to learn, she is grateful for the foundation that has been built by those before her. Despite any lingering doubts, she recognizes the importance of creating an environment where others feel supported and encouraged to share their voices. AAA has not just created a safe space—it has created a space where members find the confidence to contribute, grow, and lead.
Be sure to keep up with Dr. Lee and her work by following her on Linkedin, Bluesky, and Instagram.