Acronym

As in most of the programs I have “attended” at ASAE, I fall into the young professional end of the spectrum. I entered the association world about 4 years ago after beginning a career in higher education administration. Now instead of working FOR higher level college administrators, I work WITH them. I have attended multiple Membership Idea Swaps, Membership/ Marketing conferences, online programs, and the Future Leaders conference 2008. I have learned and gathered a wealth of information from each experience and I am looking forward to attending my first Great Ideas conference and sharing all that I learn.

As a young professional, it is all about putting in your time. It is all about challenging how things are done, suggesting new innovative ideas, and taking on those projects that you hope will provide learning opportunities for the future. I value the fact that at any program or conference, we are each surrounded by so much experience and knowledge. Through each interaction, we are expanding our network and pool of resources. In reflection, my most valuable take-away from the Future Leaders conference was the close network of fellow young professionals and their ideas and insights. I continuously use them to bounce ideas around, ask for suggestions to problems, and use as a sounding board. In essence, they are a “mini” Great Ideas group.

I am looking forward to Miami and to all of the Great Ideas I will be able to pass along to my colleagues and to all of you through Acronym.