Staff

Elizabeth Sturdy – Executive Director

Elizabeth Sturdy has served the American Academy of Pediatrics – Orange County Chapter for four years, leading program management and CME, and now serving as Executive Director. She first started her work for AAP-OC as an intern while completing her undergraduate degree in Health Care Administration at California State University, Long Beach. She has been with the Chapter since 2021 and has assisted in a variety of areas including administrative work, Chapter membership, continuing medical education, and supporting important initiatives such as Project Firstline and ACEs PRACTICE. Elizabeth enjoys the versatility of her job and is grateful to be working for an organization that allows her to fulfill her passion for helping those in need and serving her community. She steps into this role with dedication and the goal to expand member engagement, strengthen the Chapter’s financial stability and fundraising efforts, and to advance programs and advocacy that support the health of children.

Emma Course – Program Coordinator

Emma Course came to AAP-OC in 2012, after having worked at CHOC Children’s Hospital for over 10 years as the Reading Program Coordinator. Her experience coordinating a successful & organized program for so many years allows her to share her tips on maintaining an active program and provides technical assistance when needed. She assists clinic sites to engage their parents & children in developing a love of books and reading. Emma took on the role of CME Coordinator for AAP-OC in 2016 and coordinated activities for Continuing Medical Education until 2022. Emma added coordinating the Clinic in the Park Program in July 2020, during the Pandemic. In-person Health Expos were put on hiatus and efforts were shifted to educating Community Partners on topics of safety and injury prevention.  When restrictions were relaxed, Clinic in the Park now participates in partner organization’s outreach events, providing education on safety equipment, fitting and distributing to underserved families in Orange County. Emma assists in any AAP programs or events as needed, and truly enjoys the variety her job offers. Outside of the office, Emma enjoys family-time with her husband, two grown kids & their spouses and 4 grandkids, as well as cooking, traveling, decorating, volunteering, and of course reading.