Lessons Learned

I joined NASPA for education, networking, and personal/professional development. This past month and my preparations for the upcoming National Board meeting (July 21-24th) have done all of those things for me, and have challenged me in ways I hadn’t expected.

So what lessons have I learned?

• We have a diverse region with a wide variety of political ideologies.

• I only have one vote – even though I want two, or three, or four.

• You can never have too much information or input if you take the time to listen openly and honestly.

• Making these decisions and casting these votes is hard. I don’t enjoy alienating or disappointing colleagues, but I do know that I will always do my best to make sure that your voices and concerns are heard.

Why all of this musing on lessons? I am preparing for another vote with additional rational and emotional connections related to the unification between ACPA and NASPA. At this moment, I still need your thoughts and feedback.

At the end of the month, I will be asked if we should continue explorations of a unification pending a final extensive financial and legal due diligence ending up in a vote by the NASPA membership OR if we should not pursue unification, which means there will be no vote by the NASPA membership. All documents to which I have access can be found on the NASPA site.

I ask you to let me know what you think, by commenting on this blog, leaving a post on the IV-West Facebook page or by email directly. Please Let me know!