President’s Message

2012

It is with sincere appreciation to our membership for their vote of confidence in installing me as President of the Metro NJ Chapter for 2012.    I am honored to step up and, as the Scouts say, “…do my best”.

A main theme in our Chapter has been and continues to be a recognition of volunteerism and service by our members.  I particularly extend thanks to those that have taken leadership roles; to the people that step up and follow through on a regular basis.  I see the Metro Chapter only growing stronger in 2012.

Most of us would agree that a thriving organization is a function of its people.  Our membership is full of excellent qualities such as strength, vision, dedication, and perseverance.

I am very fortunate to be surrounded on the Executive Committee by names like Paul Korch, Joe Baldoni, Sr, and Anthony Graziano, Jr..   Additionally, our committee chairs, board of directors, and educators are people that, by their nature, always strive for high levels of professionalism.  I have continued gratitude to the glue that holds it all together, our dedicated Executive Director, Debra Miller.

As we move forward this year, we will continue to hear about changes in store for our organization at the national level.  However, whether you agree or disagree with national initiatives, it is important to remember that we always have the ability to make a more direct and immediate impact at the local chapter level. This could be for programs, conferences, education, technology, candidate guidance, government relations, public relations, or philanthropy.

We will be forward thinking and adapt to changes in politics, markets, and technology.  This year, one of our focuses will be to develop a strategy to maximize social media such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.  While the personal computer has changed our lives forever, the value of personal contact can never be underestimated.  I look forward to shaking hands with every single one of you at our programs, meetings and courses.

I know that our members are not afraid of a challenge, and will accomplish great things together this year.

Wishing you all the best in 2012!

Ed Marashlian, MAI

President Metro Chapter