Beginnings are a wonderful thing. Packed with hope and brimming with possibilities, the start of any trip, whether for business or pleasure, fills the traveler with expectations, and with rare exception, only positive prospects are envisioned to lie ahead. My recent career shift to academia has helped me focus on the meaning of “commencement.” Each year at NYU I celebrate with students who finish their academic degree and begin another leg of their journey in personal and professional development. Graduation is a beginning and yet, also, a recognition of the past and all the work that has been completed in the years before. Likewise, I am full of hope for the coming year that lies ahead for HSMAI members and simultaneously am acutely aware of the need to celebrate those individuals that have lead the chapter in the past four years. So thank you Tom Travers and Brian Kotula, who as the two most recent past presidents lead a tremendous cadre of fabulous individuals as directors in the Big Apple over the past four years to help us arrive at this superb beginning. Much is planned--expectations are high for the next 12 months because the talent that is engaged at the leadership level of your chapter is outstanding this year. Find out who they are at www.hsmainyc.com What you can expect is a call for your input, depth and breadth in programming, mid-day (lunch) programs with a refreshed format, connections to the national and international leadership and resources of HSMAI, and a promise to continue to be a leading voice for our industry in our City, the region, and the world community. Check in often and celebrate the promise of the New Year with your fellow members of the biggest and best chapter (okay, my opinion may be biased) in the global community of HSMAI. See you on January 10, 2007 at the Crowne Plaza Times Square for the start of something great! |
