Beginning a New Journey: Postcard from Indianapolis.

Dear ACEI Family Member,

As I begin my term as Vice President Representing Infancy/Early Childhood, I want to share some of my memories, thoughts and dreams with you. The 1996 International Conference gave me the opportunity to meet and greet both novice and seasoned ACEI members. Each interaction allowed me to think about what makes ACEI special for me.

I remembered 1) discovering ACEI as an undergraduate student - the "AH! HA!" moment, 2) attending my first ACEI conference - the "WOW!" moments, 3) feeling excited about my first conference presentation - the "Uh! Oh!" moments, 4) participating in a supporting role with preparations for the 1989 conference in Indiana - the "Oh! Gee!" moments, and 5) savoring other memories - the "Oh! My!" moments.

Although all of these events happened at different times, they left me with the same feeling - I knew that I had found and belonged to a "circle of friends." This group consisted of individuals who cared about one another; exhibited a passion for their work on behalf of children, youth and families; and dedicated their energies and efforts to serving as catalysts making a difference at all levels (local, state, national and international).

As the 1996 conference fades into the annals as another success, plans and preparations are on schedule for the 1997 conference in Portland. I must tell you that I have gained a deeper appreciation for the work and people power needed to mount a successful study conference. The members of the Infancy/Early Childhood Committee reviewed conference proposals in record time. The reviewers, like the rest of the membership, were either busy closing the doors to the semester/quarter or school year, planning for or beginning summer school or pursuing university classes for a degree program or license renewal. I know that every reviewer gave their limited time so that the assigned task could move forward smoothly. Our committee added new meaning to the words "Giving to and supporting one another and ACEI." Please accept my sincere gratitude for your support in this endeavor. Your personal notes included with the proposal review packets made my day and week. I appreciate your offers to help in whatever ways that I or our committee members may need during the next three years.

At this time, I wish to send special thanks to the Executive Board members and Headquarters staff for making my transition to the Board a smooth one. I felt welcomed and included as a new family member. The Headquarters staff and seasoned Board members have been very gracious and patient as I discovered and learned the way for this new journey. Their support and assistance have made a significant difference to me.

In a few weeks, members of our committee will receive a committee roster. I encourage each committee member to send a card or note to a different committee member each month until the conference in April. For this year let's make our theme echo these words: Caring for and sharing with our ACEI family - immediate and extended.

Warmest regards,

Jacwueline Blackwell,

Vice President,

Infancy/Early Childhood

P.S. Members who wish to join the Infancy/Early Childhood Committee can send me a note (School of Education, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5155) or E-mail message (email: [e-mail]).