1. Tell us about your experience putting together your portfolio for the AL-CIP?
Putting together my portfolio for the AL-CIP was a reflective and empowering experience. It gave me the opportunity to pause and look back at the leadership journey I’ve taken in infection prevention, and to see the tangible impact of that work. The structured format of the portfolio helped me organize my experiences across key domains, from strategic planning and interdisciplinary collaboration to change management and advocacy. I appreciated how the process encouraged me to tie specific achievements to broader leadership competencies. While it required time and thoughtfulness, it ultimately reinforced my commitment to driving meaningful change and inspired me to continue developing as a leader in the field.
2. Can you provide tips for writing a successful rationale?
1. Start with why
Clearly explain the purpose of the activity. What were you trying to achieve and why was it important?
2. Connect to leadership competencies
Reference specific AL-CIP domains such as collaboration, systems thinking, or change management. Show how your experience demonstrates growth in these areas.
3. Be reflective
Go beyond describing what you did. Share what you learned, the challenges you faced, and how the experience shaped your leadership.
4. Demonstrate impact
Include measurable outcomes when possible. If not, describe how the work influenced people, processes, or culture.
5. Be concise and focused
Write clearly and purposefully. Use specific examples that align with the intent of the domain you are addressing."
3. What advice would you give to someone considering the AL-CIP?
Take your time and start early. Reflect on how you’ve led, not just through formal roles, but through influence, improvement work, and mentorship. Use the AL-CIP framework to guide your thinking. Be authentic in your examples. And do not hesitate to reach out to others who have gone through the process—it is a supportive community.
4. What does earning your AL-CIP mean to you?
Earning the AL-CIP is a meaningful validation of the leadership work we do every day in infection prevention. It recognizes not only technical expertise but also the ability to lead change, influence systems, and support teams. For me, it affirms a commitment to advancing the field through thoughtful, strategic leadership.