First, congratulations to Vice President Melanie for her election victory. Congratulations also to Tami for hers as Director. I wish for them and the rest of the Board great success in moving our Association forward.
From a personal standpoint, I must thank my campaign team, headed up by Deborah Trujillo, with Mike Brentano as my representative on the Election Committee and Duane Smith, my introducer. The last five weeks have been enormously enriching for me, as those who supported my candidacy gave so unselfishly of their time, energy, creativity, and resources. That level of commitment, just to advance the candidacy for me, is humbling and yet so confirming. I will always treasure the love and support generated; and members of my campaign team, most of whom had never met the others, but now have new-found and lasting friendships to share.
I also have to thank the numerous people who sent in nominations and many others who gave quiet but very appreciated support. I will confess that, in my wildest dreams, I would not have believed that over 500 people would push a button next to my name for an office.
I'm asked if I'm "okay." Please, to those who are concerned, of course I'm okay. I have a loving family, great friends, a busy office, and fulfilling hobbies. Some of you in Anaheim have met some of my family, and you know what a beautiful (thanks to Sherri) group they are, inside and out. In fact, yesterday, without Director responsibilities for the first time in three years, we enjoyed a full and joyful (and tiring) day in Disneyland.
No regrets whatsoever. My campaign team went above and beyond. I handled the best I could among juggling full-time reporting, family, Board duties, and campaigning. Had I not been nominated, I would not have experienced the tremendously rewarding work with my team, affirmation from others, nor would I have had the opportunity to address the membership to give them words that I consider important for us to remember in our profession.
It's been a great ride, one of many that life has to offer if you just push through those doors.
All the success possible to NCRA, the Board, and my colleagues.
- Jason