NAEOP Educational Foundation President

Email: foundationpresident@naeopboard.org

Area: Northwest

State: Wyoming

Length of time in Education Office Profession: 30 years

Bio: I have been in education since 1992 and a member of NAEOP since 1997. In 2004 NAEOP President Ann Sawicki appointed me as the Administrative Council Chairman and I was reappointed in 2005 by NAEOP President Connie Bergeson. I was elected and served two terms as the Northwest Area Director. I have served on the Foundation for 19 years and as President 11 of the 19 years. Belonging to a professional organization helps you grow both professionally and personally. I would encourage you to take full advantage of what NAEOP has to offer. Below is a little something to think about.

What does the word member mean to you? Listed below are some definitions I found online:

• A person, animal, plant, group, etc., that is part of a society, party, community, or other body

• One of the individuals composing a group

• Somebody who belongs to and participates in a particular group by birth or choice

• The state of belonging to an organization

• One that belongs to a group or an organization

If you go to the NAEOP Website and click on the Membership link you will find several benefits offered by the Association for our members. I know for me one of the huge benefits is the knowledge and the networking we share with one another.

All too often we ask what’s in it for me, when maybe we should be asking ourselves what do I have to offer. I have grown both professionally and personally through the opportunities of being a member. I am getting more out of being a member by becoming actively involved in and giving back to NAEOP.

We all know the adage “It is better to give than receive,” based on my experience I find that to be true. We all have something we can share with others that can be helpful or enlightening or motivational. Look at what you have to offer, step outside your comfort zone and say yes when you are asked to do something to which you would otherwise say no. Try it; you’re gonna LOVE it!