Leadership Notes

Changing the world

By Maureen McGonagle, CRSS, DePaul University, NIRSA President

I like stories and anecdotes. I like hearing them, and I like sharing them. Whenever I am in a position to help others learn, I tend to share an anecdote or two (or three or four…). One of my favorites is attributed to an “unknown monk, 1100 AD,” which to me is as amusing as the story is powerful.

“Changing the world” starts with changing yourself, and NIRSA gives you the tools. There are a wide variety of educational opportunities available at this time of year, including regional conferences, state workshops, and specialty institutes. The value of participation varies for each person, but usually includes building networks, increasing knowledge, honing skills, benchmarking, strengthening friendships, and being reenergized. The common denominator is personal growth and development; and while the benefit starts with the individual, the overall impact can easily ripple out to the broader community. Each of us has the ability to make a distinct and positive impact on our students, our colleagues, and our institutions. But whether the ability is matched with willingness is a personal decision.

Thank you!

Many thanks to those who have worked to provide quality educational opportunities for colleagues. The National Recreation Facilities Institute in particular was an overwhelming success, with a record-setting 174 participants. Kudos to the many members who volunteered their time and efforts to this event, especially Dave DeAngelo and The Ohio State University staff (hosts), Kristie Deschesne (program chair), and Donn Shade, Dave Ostrander, Kim Schmidt, Kendra Violet, Eric Corbitt, and Drew Corbett (tour coordinators).