Leadership Notes

My, how time flies when you're having fun!

By Tamra Garstka, CRSS, Arizona State University, NIRSA Immediate Past President

Three years on the Board has left me with feelings of understanding, appreciation and excitement. As a Board Member, I had so many memorable experiences traveling to all regions, participating in Student Lead Ons, and actively participating in Board meetings and activities. It is really hard to describe the experience if you have not been a part of this team.

I truly have a better understanding of our Association. From the outside, looking in, one’s perspective takes such a different shape. I have found on many occasions a Board Member saying, “I believe the Membership’s perception will be....” The compassion and respect fellow Board Members have toward one another, our Members and the NNC staff is the understanding of the individual commitment toward doing what is best for NIRSA. I have a better understanding of our Members and why NIRSA means so much to them. Having traveled so much and listened to their issues and concerns has given me a broader perspective of Membership needs both within and outside of our Association. I also have a better understanding of our profession and the importance it has to the educational system, to the well-being of our society, and to the personal enhancement of the students we serve.

I appreciate more of what NIRSA and our Members do. The time, energy and commitment goes beyond great. I appreciate our NIRSA student constituency and their vision of our future. And finally, I appreciate our history and the people that led us to where we are today. Take nothing for granted; we have paved our way through tireless fortitude and endless dreams—I appreciate that.

Excitement leads to the future of NIRSA. We have foresight, imagination and the people determined to bring us to a better place than we were yesterday. I am excited for our new leaders, our future Members and the future of our Association. As they say, it is not the destination ... it is the journey.

Thanks for a fantastic three-year journey!