Whew! What a busy, exciting, thoughtful, fun, educational conference! It definitely takes a few days to settle back into “real life” after a conference.’ My head is always spinning with new ideas, my mind is filled with thoughts of people I’ve met and conversations we’ve had, and my imagination has undoubtedly been captured by lots of new books.
Now it’s time to harness all those thoughts and ideas and put them to work.’ I’m very excited to begin my year as YALSA President.’ At our membership meeting I spoke about the theme for my presidential year, Engaging the YALSA Community.’ One of the things I value most about YALSA is the diversity amongst our members.’ I’ve known so many people who all seem to do very different jobs in very different places, yet they all serve teens.’ This connection is what brings our members together and builds our professional community.’ I would like to build upon that connection by making sure all YALSA members are represented and engaged.’ A new member survey will be launched soon.’ Data from this survey will be used to assess what members are looking for in our organization.
Don’t forget that if you would like to volunteer to be on a YALSA committee you can submit an online volunteer form.’ President-Elect Linda Braun will be starting the selection committee appointments very soon.
Thanks for all you do to make YALSA a great organization and I’m looking forward to a wonderful year!
Sarah Cornish Debraski
YALSA President, 2008-2009
