Dear SOCRA Members,

Change isn’t just inevitable—it’s an opportunity. As SOCRA continues to grow, we’re embracing this moment to strengthen, innovate, and enhance the value we bring to you. That’s why the Board of Directors has made a strategic decision to partner with Parthenon Management Group (PMG)—a trusted Association Management Company with a proven track record of helping professional organizations like ours thrive, evolve, and expand their impact.

This transition isn’t just about change—it’s about unlocking new possibilities for SOCRA and its members. Well-managed organizational shifts create opportunities for:

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Greater efficiency – Streamlining operations so we can focus on what truly matters: serving you, our members.

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Stronger engagement – Deepening connections between leadership, members, and our community at large.

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More innovation – Bringing fresh ideas, forward-thinking strategies, and industry-leading practices.

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Long-term sustainability – Ensuring SOCRA remains a strong, future-focused organization for years to come.

Our mission remains the same, but our approach is evolving to meet the needs of today’s clinical research professionals. This partnership positions SOCRA to lead the way, expand professional development opportunities, and create an even more valuable experience for our members.

We’re just getting started—there’s so much more ahead, and we can’t wait to shape this future together!

Continue Reading SOCRA Announcement

Putting Members First: Shaping SOCRA’s Future Together

The needs of our members are and will always be our top priority. As the field of clinical research continues to evolve, SOCRA is dedicated to adapting, growing, and strengthening our impact. With PMG’s expertise, we are launching a comprehensive strategic planning process—one that will focus on:

  • Understanding and responding to the priorities of our members through direct feedback and engagement.
  • Expanding membership opportunities to strengthen and diversify our professional community.
  • Elevating the SOCRA Conference with fresh ideas, dynamic programming, and an even greater attendee experience.
  • Enhancing year-round engagement through improved communication, networking, and educational resources.
  • Developing a forward-thinking strategy that ensures SOCRA remains an essential and influential organization in clinical research.

All About PMG and the Transition Team:

PMG Team

Parthenon Management Group (PMG) is a full-service, accredited, association management company specializing in serving scientific and medical societies. With a team of over 120 professionals, PMG provides strategic leadership, operational support, and innovative solutions to help associations grow, engage their members, and achieve their missions. Their expertise spans governance, membership management, financial oversight, conference planning, and cutting-edge technology solutions.

PMG is known for taking a tailored, partnership-driven approach, ensuring that each organization they serve receives customized support that aligns with its unique needs and goals. Their commitment to operational excellence and member-focused service makes them a trusted partner in the association management space.

Currently, PMG is actively assembling the staff team to support this organization. In the interim, a dedicated transition team of approximately 15 seasoned professionals is in place to ensure a seamless shift in operations. This team includes Sarah Timm, CAE, CMP-HC, PMG CEO, and Dawn Keglor, CAE, Vice President of Association Management, along with other experienced leaders who are committed to providing stability and continuity during this process. They are looking forward to meeting you!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – What This Means for SOCRA Members

Why is SOCRA making this transition to PMG? SOCRA has grown significantly, and as the field of clinical research evolves, so must we. PMG brings extensive experience in association management, helping organizations like ours enhance efficiency, expand member benefits, and strengthen long-term sustainability.

Will my membership benefits change? No—your membership benefits will remain intact and will only be enhanced through PMG’s expertise. We are committed to maintaining and expanding the high-quality educational programs, networking opportunities, and resources you value.

Will there be any immediate changes to the SOCRA Annual Conference? No immediate changes will occur. However, we are working closely with PMG to enhance the conference experience, ensuring that future events bring even greater value to attendees.

Will SOCRA’s mission or values change? Absolutely not. SOCRA remains committed to promoting excellence in clinical research. This transition strengthens our ability to serve members while remaining true to our core mission.

How can I stay updated on this transition? We will continue providing updates via email, the SOCRA website, and member communications. If you have any specific concerns or suggestions, we encourage you to share them with us by simply replying to this email!

Who should I contact for information about an upcoming service or to ask for a refund? You can contact Dawn or Kat at socra@parthenonmgmt.com via email or you can call us at 423-424-2814.

A Bright Future Ahead

This transition marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for SOCRA—one that will bring greater opportunities for professional growth, stronger connections, and an even more valuable member experience!

Statement on NIH Imposed Standard Indirect Cost Rate

With the recent NIH supplemental guidance capping all current and future indirect costs at 15%, we find ourselves in a position of significant uncertainty. As clinical research professionals, we are acutely aware of the severe impact this will have on public health, crippling our ability to conduct vital clinical research across the United States.

Indirect costs fund essential functions necessary to support research. These encompass administrative support, maintenance of research facilities, and compliance functions—core components that form the backbone of our research infrastructure. The cap undermines the ability of institutions to sustain comprehensive research environments, thereby jeopardizing scientific innovation and advancements in medical treatments.

SOCRA remains steadfast in its commitment to our members during these challenging times. We recognize your concerns and understand the far-reaching consequences of this policy change. In response, we are actively collaborating with leaders in the industry to advocate for the vital importance of sustained investment in research infrastructure. Our efforts include engaging with stakeholders across the research industry, as well as partnering with other impacted organizations to ensure that the voices of clinical research professionals are heard and acknowledged.

We commend the dedication and resilience of you, our members, and rest assured, SOCRA will continue to stand by you, leveraging our collective strength to ensure that the critical work of advancing public health through clinical research can continue unabated.

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  • 11,400+ "CCRP" Certified Clinical Research Professionals
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Our Mission

In order to promote quality clinical research, to protect the welfare of research participants, and improve global health, SOCRA's mission is:

To establish educational programming and provide continuing education for clinical research professionals
To establish an internationally recognized certification program for clinical research professionals (CCRP®)
To foster the professional development and peer recognition of clinical research professionals

SOCRA's Vision
That all clinical research fully protects every research participant and is accomplished with excellence, quality, and professionalism.

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