Committee Application FAQS

Does every applicant get appointed?

No. We enjoy a robust applicant pool, which means we receive more applications than there are open positions each year. In addition, the number of open positions on a committee varies from year to year.

Why are committees listed with zero openings? Should I still apply if no positions are available?

The openings are based on term limits; therefore, those are the positions that we know will be open. However, all member appointments are evaluated on an annual basis which means that there may be openings that occur and if you are interested in the committee, we recommend that you apply.

The website says 2025 applications are due April 30, 2024. Can I still apply for 2024?

We are accepting applications for 2025 because the 2024 appointment cycle is complete. Though applying for 2025, please note that openings may occur on committees or project teams for various reasons throughout the calendar year. When these vacancies arise, your application will be considered. If appointed to fill a vacancy, you would be notified immediately following Board approval.

Do I have to reapply to remain on a committee?

No, while all members on committees are evaluated annually, there is no need to apply to remain on the committee you are already appointed to.

Will I be notified if I have not been appointed?

Yes. All applicants not appointed to a committee will be notified in November/December.

How can I increase my chances of being appointed to a committee?

The CAP enjoys a robust applicant pool annually which means we have many more applicants than we have positions each year. Like anything else, networking is key! Reach out to the committee's chair or staff to introduce yourself and let them know you've applied.

How long is my application kept on file?

Applications are maintained through the first quarter of the appointment year for which you are applying. Applications should be submitted annually.

Do I have to be a CAP member or an MD to participate on a committee?

The CAP welcomes nonmember applicants to apply. Nonmembers are individuals who are not eligible for CAP membership.

I am a pathology resident, does that mean I am a nonmember?

No. Pathology residents should activate their Junior Member status through the website. Note, Junior membership is free. Learn about CAP Junior Membership.

Is there a list of committees that have openings?

Yes, the committees that have openings based on term limits are listed on the application.

I am still in a Fellowship program. Can I still apply to sit on a committee as a Junior Member?

No. Junior Member positions are reserved for those residents who have not yet passed their boards. Once you pass your boards, you are automatically re-classified as a CAP Fellow and are therefore ineligible.

I am currently a resident but plan on passing my boards before the committee appointment year for which I am applying. Can I still apply as a Junior Member?

If you anticipate having your board-certification before the appointment year begins, you cannot apply as a Junior Member. Please indicate "CAP Fellow/Emeritus Member" on the application.

The website says residents must upload a letter of recommendation from their program director, but I do not see an option on the application.

If you are a resident who anticipates being board-certified for the appointment year for which you are applying, you have likely indicated "CAP Fellow/Emeritus Member" on the application. By doing so, you have bypassed this requirement.

I am already on a CAP committee but would like to volunteer for another committee.

If you are already on a CAP committee, please do NOT apply for an additional committee. In an attempt to get as many members involved in CAP committees, we try to not appoint members to multiple committees.

Are there other ways to get involved with the CAP beyond committees?

Yes. Following are some of the other ways you can get involved:

CAP House of Delegates (HOD) – The CAP House of Delegates is an excellent way to become involved on both the local and national levels. Through the HOD, CAP members link directly to a strong network of CAP leaders, help define and drive the CAP agenda of issues and initiatives and ensure that the CAP is meeting the needs of its members. The HOD is our largest volunteer body and, as such, the HOD is often looking for CAP Fellows to get involved. To learn more or join the CAP HOD, please contact Ellen Fox.
CAP Engaged Leadership Academy (ELA) – The Engaged Leadership Academy (ELA) is a CAP member benefit designed to enhance pathologists' professional development by developing essential communication and presentation skills necessary to become ambassadors for advancing the specialty. This program develops current and future pathologist leaders by teaching them to articulate and demonstrate their value to clinical colleagues, health care executives, media professionals and elected officials and to secure influential roles in their own practice and facilitate adoption of change. To learn more or apply for this unique program, please contact Kristen Erickson.
CAP Residents Forum (RF) – The CAP Residents Forum gives pathology residents a voice in organized pathology, promotes the involvement of young leaders in CAP activities, and establishes a network for pathology residents. To learn more or join the CAP RF, please contact Stephen Simalchik.
Laboratory Accreditation Inspectors - Participation in the CAP Accreditation Programs as a frequent inspector is a foundational opportunity to engage yourself in the true mission of the CAP to share your expertise and experiences in recognizing compliance with laboratory regulations and sharing your own best practices. These accreditation programs reach all types of laboratories with the same goal to ensure efficacious practices to achieve accurate and reliable test results for the right patient at the right time. If you are interested in donating your time and expertise to participate in additional inspections, please contact Denise Driscoll.

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