Erica O'Grady MASAE 2012 President
It was Fall 1995 and I had just landed my first job out of college in “an association.” I wasn’t even sure what associations did so, with some encouragement from a member, I attended an education session, joined the organization, and got actively involved with NJSAE. Fast forward 16 years and here I am: humbled and privileged to serve my fellow association professionals as President of MASAE for 2012.
I am amazed by the progress the organization has made since that time and am energized to continue the tremendous work of my predecessors who have laid the foundation for where we are today.
Those who have steered the Association along this dynamic road have done so in a responsive and measured way, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency. Many people have contributed to these outcomes, far too many people to mention here by name.
I would, however, like to recognize the MASAE staff – Pat, Jodi and Dena – for their hard work and dedication; they make volunteering easy! And to both past and present NJSAE, DVSAE and MASAE Officers, Boards and Committees, I am appreciative of the extraordinary people I’ve had the opportunity to serve with over the years and thank each of you for commitment to our Association and to each other as association professionals.
Our organization plays a critical role in association professionals’ success by serving as your local resource for networking and education. As your President, I commit:
- to provide the leadership necessary to advance our mission;
- to listen and respond to your needs as members; and
- to work closely with the MASAE Board, committee chairs, and staff to achieve our objectives.
In the two short years since the merger of NJSAE & DVSAE, the scope of the Association and its activities has broadened considerably. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
We have had many successes from working together as one under MASAE, including:
- development and execution of our first-ever strategic plan;
- regional growth in both membership and education offerings; and
- expansion of our volunteer base and opportunities for involvement.
In 2009, the Board adopted an ambitious strategic agenda to reach our vision: to be the essential resource for association professionals in the Mid-Atlantic region. While we have accomplished much toward achieving this goal, there is still more to be done. The Board and I have committed to reevaluate the existing strategic plan this year and revisit, refine and challenge those plan goals to ensure that we remain true to our vision and mission.
MASAE today represents more than 300 professional and affiliate members and enjoys the support of more than 75 sponsors, exhibitors and advertisers. We have been fortunate to see success with the regional expansion of our education and networking opportunities to reach many of our current, as well as prospective, members.
We know that engaging our members through meaningful volunteer leadership opportunities is critical for our sustainable growth. As a result of our increased membership ranks, we have recognized an expanded potential volunteer base and responded with numerous opportunities for member involvement where you can share your expertise, passion, and excitement about our profession and the future direction of MASAE.
These accomplishments are reflective of the strategic focus of our Board and Committees, our pursuit of excellence in education, our strong commitment to meeting the changing needs of our members, and our “working together” for success.
I believe the essence of what we do at MASAE is fostering an environment that enhances our members’ professional knowledge and enriches their personal development. Without hesitation, I can say that I am a better association professional because of my active involvement and have cultivated an invaluable network of professionals, and friends, on whom I can rely.
I invite each of you to get actively involved in our organization today – from attending social and education functions to joining a committee or task force. Your investment of your time and talents will reap many rewards.
As always, I encourage your feedback as a valued member of MASAE. I invite you to contact me (eogrady@iccifp.org), the MASAE staff, or any of the leadership of your organization. We are open to your comments (the good, the bad and the ugly!) and committed to responding to your needs.
Thank you again for the honor of serving as 2012 President of MASAE. I look forward to working with all of you in the coming year to make your MASAE membership experience a valuable one.
