NAMA LEADER'S MESSAGE.

As I look back over the four years I've served on the NAMA Executive Committee, I've come to better understand and appreciate the importance of this strong organization and the value it brings to all of us. In her initial President's address, her communications throughout the year, and her parting comments in Denver, Jill Greene always emphasized the importance of delivering member value. This year's President, Marjory Walker, will continue in that tradition with an even stronger emphasis on strengthening the local chapter organizations. After all, for many people, the NAMA experience might only be at the chapter level.

Now, the development of chapters can be accomplished through a variety of ways. But, I believe that the best way is through leader development. Each chapter needs to identify and support those people who wish to serve ... in whatever capacity each person feels comfortable with. This is really nothing more than leader succession. Sounds easy. But it takes some time, thought, recruiting, and involvement and support from member companies.

As liaison to the Regional Directors and Region 1 (California chapters), I've seen the importance of leader development and succession. That's why we now have staggered terms of office for the Regional Directors, so each year the `experienced' one can help the `new' person. And, in Region 1, we're beginning to see a resurgence of interest, mostly due to the hands-on help of the Regional Directors and others at the chapter levels. To keep this working, members must be invited, included, and involved.

Financially, NAMA is healthy, even with all the changes, mergers, and acquisitions in the ag industry. I attribute a great deal of this to the resourcefulness and hard work of the national staff. Yet, we know we have to change, to evolve, to include new members. NAMA can bring great member value to all those who want and need professional contacts, professional education, and leadership skills development. But we need you to be involved. Be a part of the chapter leadership team, or join in on a committee, or recruit new members, or just add your two-cents worth at a meeting.

Just a small amount of your time could make a big difference for NAMA ... and for a NAMA member.

Mike Gustafson, Secretary/Treasurer