by Jim Penrod, CAE, KCSAE Past President
The year has flown by as the KCSAE Past President. When I started my term, I spoke about the benefits of “Community” in our KCSAE society. Getting involved takes some effort, but the benefits are far greater than the work.
When I was moving up as an association executive, I worked on developing a network of like individuals to assist me in my journey. I have found that the advice from my peers has served me well. The ability to listen to the experiences of others has greatly influenced the way that I have developed as a leader of my organization. Having a sounding board to bounce ideas off of or ask questions of has profoundly affected the way that I have led my organization and my staff. Without the many friends in the KCSAE organization, I would have fumbled through my tenure as CEO of my association.
For those of you on the sidelines, I encourage you to take that first step. Volunteer for a committee or become more involved in educational opportunities. You will be greatly rewarded for the minimal effort that it takes to become more involved.
Thank you to all of you in the KCSAE Community that have impacted my career. I have enjoyed being Past President this year and can’t wait to continue my journey. I look forward to seeing all of you at the next KCSAE event.