I am pleased to write this first of many columns and decided to name my column, "Making the Connection". The NACAS tag line is The Connections That Count and I strongly believe that as an association we strive to deliver on that tag line and work hard to introduce you to new concepts, new business partners, and new colleagues. We encourage you to attend the professional development programs, and attend regional and national conferences. We promise to make the connection between the services and programs we offer and the auxiliary service profession.
It is great to finally get started on the next chapter in my career as the new NACAS CEO. I have already been visiting via phone and face-to-face with friends, colleagues, and leaders of the Association who have been partners with me over the years. NACAS is a great organization that has an outstanding reputation among our members and in the higher education association world. I would like to thank Dr. Bob Hassmiller for all his efforts in making that happen and for providing a comfortable transition with the staff, Board, and leadership.
As we all look forward to the next steps for our institutions and our professional development, I would like to encourage you to continue to value the role of volunteers in our Association. We need to continue to have great leaders and members who serve the Association and I look forward to working with you side by side.
We value the strong membership participation in our regional associations that support our ability to offer programs and services to support you. Our regions encourage professional development opportunities that add value to you and your institutions. Our regions help us make the connections that count!
I hope each of you take a serious look at the CASP program for your professional certification. This program was started with the belief that our profession in Auxiliary Services deserved an academic credential that would bring recognition and add value. Please consider becoming CASP certified. Learn more at caspcert.org.
The NACAS Education Foundation provides great assistance to both NACAS institutional and business partner members. The Education Foundation raises money to support initiatives and scholarships that directly benefit NACAS members and their institutions. I encourage you to learn more and additionally make a donation at nacas.org/foundation.
Finally, we are living in an economic time where we are faced with tough decisions on our campuses and in our personal lives. Some of us are transforming the way we do things, the way we think about things, and the way we vision the future. I have a very positive vision for the future of NACAS and the kind of association that you will continue to find value in and support with your time and knowledge. As we start to take this journey together, I offer you the chance to share with us your thoughts about anything related to your association and how we can improve the value we offer you for your membership.
This is going to be a great new year making greater connections to the things that count!
