Why State Organization Visits?

Each year the Society sends members of the administrative board to visit the conventions of any state organization that requests an international representative. Why do we do this? Is this wise use of Society money?

I definitely believe that sending administrative board members to these meetings is very important. I just returned from three meetings during the month of April (Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio) and have attended many state organization conventions over the last six years. I have found it to be a very valuable experience. I make it a point to meet as many members as possible on these visits. This allows me to know up close and personal what is on the minds of our members.

And what is on the minds of members today? They are most interested in how they can recruit chapter officers and initiate members. They want to brag about the many projects and activities that their chapters are promoting. I am always in awe of the many things that chapters are doing to promote literacy, assist those in need, and encourage college students and first year teachers as they enter the teaching profession. They raise money for student teacher grants, aid for children of military families, books for newborns and their parents, support for projects in third world countries. You name it and they are doing it. I am so proud of the local chapter projects.

And this year, the members even want to talk about the Constitution revision. Within each state organization, members have diverse opinions about membership, dues, committee structure, etc. It makes us a better organization when we discuss, plan, and work together to create the rules that govern us.

The international representative also use time at the meetings to provide updates on the activities of the Society. Many members are not able to attend the international convention or regional conferences and this is their opportunity to connect with the larger Society. It is also our opportunity at the international level to provide assistance to states and chapters. If you have concerns about an issue, talk with your international rep for ideas, help, advice. If they cannot assist, they will forward your concerns to headquarters. Remember that we are all here to serve the members. And members are in our chapters.

Enjoy your state organization convention!
Carolyn