The Exam Directorate continues to evolve to better serve our members and improve exam turnaround times. Here are the key updates regarding our team, systems, and grading initiatives.
Personnel Changes
- Departures: Michael Bury is stepping down as an Exam Director. We thank Mike for his years of dedicated service.
- Leadership: The current Exam Director team consists of Greg Toothaker (Managing), Phil Farrell, Thomaz Pupo, Don Blake, Brad Darnell, and James Lallande.
- Support: Mike Lentz continues to manage online entry exams. Fred Hirsch and Scott Joines serve as Assistant Exam Directors.
- Associate Exam Directors: John Haven, Carolina Perez, Kathy Yan Li, Nathan Keffer, David Gilks, Tom Hayosh, and Jeff Muse.
The “Bravo” System and Transparency
In collaboration with the IT team, we are rolling out the “Bravo” system to streamline administrative processes.
- Distribution: The first phase improves how we distribute exams and administrative materials to Administrators.
- Visibility: Examinees can now view their exam’s status directly in the grading system for increased transparency.
Grader and Proctor Initiatives
- Grader Incentives: We have revitalized the Grader Incentive program and processed past payments. Graders who complete three or more assignments in a calendar year earn a cash reward. Please note the AHA portion of this program has ended due to their reorganization.
- Proctor Feedback Pilot: Proctors serve as the “eyes, nose, and palate” for graders. To improve scoresheet utility, our Associate Exam Directors are piloting a Proctor Feedback program this spring to provide constructive alignment between proctors and graders.
Exam Throughput and Grading Needs
We are making steady progress on the backlog. In 2025, we closed 132 exam sets, exceeding the 123 sets administered that year. However, we currently have 13 exam sets awaiting graders.
We need your help to reduce the backlog:
- Qualified Judges: If you are a National or higher-ranked judge, you are already qualified to grade.
- Returning Graders: We welcome former graders back to the team.
- Active Graders: Please consider signing up for a new set today.
Ready to sign up? Click here: [Grader Sign-up Link]