When I was asked to write a Blog about my newly-elected position, I said "Sure, would love to!" Then I realized I had some homework to do. Don't misunderstand me- I had a basic understanding of my position, but did not, as they say, have 'my head entirely wrapped around' it.
So, thanks to many of YOU, I will formally begin my new role as the AADE Member Affiliates Liaison (MAL) on January 1, 2014. With that said, my service actually began earlier this month by attending the August 2013 board meeting as a guest. This was held immediately prior to the Annual Meeting in Philadelphia. During that time, I had the opportunity to meet current board members, observe a formal meeting, and learn more about the organization. It was quite an exciting and humbling experience. I had the opportunity to work with many educators I have long admired and respected. The next meeting will be a conference call in November for new board members. My orientation and first official board meeting will be held January 24-25 in Miami, Florida.
Some additional details about the position, the MAL is an elected ex-officio member of the Board of Directors with voting privileges. If the term 'ex-officio' is foreign to you- don't feel bad- I wasn't sure what it meant either! According to Webster, it means "by virtue of office, or official position." For the MAL, this means that my term is 2 years as compared to the other Board of Directors who serve a 3 year term. Also, an ex-officio Board member is not able to serve in an officer position. In applying for this position, you need to have previously been a CB or COI volunteer leader.
The MAL will work with the Board to help set the strategic direction of AADE. This can include identifying programs and services for members and adopting positions on critical issues. The MAL specifically works closely with AADE membership and leadership groups including Communities of Interest (COI), Coordinating Bodies (CB), and Local Networking Groups (LNG). As such, I will participate in the Member Affiliates Co-Facilitator calls, CB and LNG Briefing calls, and COI calls. I will also assist with the annual leadership programs held in Chicago. I may also contribute to the Volunteer Leader Newsletter. As a Board Member, the MAL also serves on one of the Board Governing Committees.
Donna Ryan, MPH, RN, RD, CDE, was the first MAL (the position was newly created in 2011 shortly after transition to the new membership structure). Donna is from Pensacola, Florida and will by my mentor as I settle into the role. I am very thankful for this, as she is a wonderful person to work with.
My passion has long been getting members involved, insuring they are aware of all the wonderful benefits and opportunities that accompany membership. As the MAL, I will be able to continue to do this, but on a larger scale. I want all members to realize that being involved enables them the opportunity to share their knowledge and professional experience with others. What better way is there to grow professionally and move diabetes education forward?