Shefali Purohit of Terre Haute became the new president of the Indiana State Medical Association Alliance (ISMA-A) during the ISMA-A and ISMA conventions.

ISMA-A President Shefali Purohit (left) is sworn into office by ISMA-A Immediate Past President Ferial Alsikafi, M.D., during the ISMA Annual Convention.

In her address, she stressed the importance of unity and communication within the organization.

“If we talk to one another, connect with one another, we can do great things and, most importantly, make a difference,” said Purohit. “If we all make small changes, the possibilities are endless. The achievements of an organization are the result of the combined efforts of each individual.”

Her agenda in the coming year includes efforts to educate students about healthy lifestyles to fight obesity. She also plans to collaborate on a program

to reduce bullying among teenagers.

Purohit has been active in the Vigo County Alliance for 16 years and has served as its president three times. A former high school biology teacher, she is married to Divyesh Purohit, M.D., an internist. The couple has three children.