Looking Forward to the Convention and the Future of AANR
The Regional Conventions kicked off in June and will culminate with the AANR Convention at The Willamettans in Springfield, Oregon, in mid-August.
Affectionately known as “The Willies,” The Willamettans have taken a page from successful conventions in the past by ensuring the meetings are interspersed with a full slate of fun activities and social events. This year’s theme, “Steampunk – Past, Present & Future,” promises a unique experience for attendees.
The Convention will also provide members with an opportunity to meet and interact with the newly elected Board and Trustees. This year, many of the positions had more than one person running, which gave the members a real choice in who they wanted in Leadership. To ensure we continue developing future leaders, it is important that we recognize, encourage, and mentor members to serve on Boards and Committees. Reestablishing and strengthening this Leadership development effort will be a priority for me for the organization.
I am especially looking forward to sharing the initiatives and vision that I have for the organization. At the top of the AANR organizational chart are our members. Every decision we make should reflect the best interests of both our current members and those who may choose to join us in the future. As a servant leader, maintaining that member-first focus will remain at the heart of my leadership. BG Parkes, incoming AANR Vice-President, also shares this value.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. By participating in the election process, you helped select the individuals you believe are best equipped to move our organization forward. I am deeply honored to have been re-elected as President of AANR and look forward to working alongside both experienced leaders and new voices as we continue building a strong future for AANR.
Linda Weber
AANR President
