Jamie Thayer Scates

Jamie serves as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), the largest, independent student medical association. In this role, Jamie focuses on mapping the vision, strategy, funding and growth plans for the global organization. She heads up partner development with foundations, nonprofits, and social enterprises; builds networks; and coalesces teams.

Spurred by an unwavering belief that change is possible—that healthcare can be reimagined to better serve all people—Jamie brings a special kind of pragmatic idealism to the table. She is quick to see the bigger picture, to push edges and to envision strategies that are both bold and sustainable. Her lead-by-example work ethic is inspiring; AMSA’s governance, staff and partners rise to meet high expectations on timely, relevant and meaningful issues.

During Jamie’s 10 years with AMSA, new partnerships have been crystallized, profits have increased, new revenue streams have been tapped, and the staff is reinvigorated. Her most recent accomplishments include the launch of the Institutional Partnership Program and a significant financial turnaround for the organization.

Outside of AMSA, Jamie serves on the Board of Directors for the Academic Medical Professionals Insurance Risk Retention Group, LLC. For the past three years she has served as a scholarship judge for Phi Theta Kappa’s Spring Scholarship Application competition, which awards nearly $300,000 to more than 250 students. She is a graduate of Seth Kahan’s Visionary Leadership Academy.

When she’s not blazing new paths for AMSA, you can find Jamie advocating for economic, social and environmental justice in other ways—as an involved citizen, curious globe-trotter, training in Brazilian jiu jitsu, supermom to two beautiful children, and wife to an amazing (and, obviously, supportive) husband.