There’s so much that could be said in a message like this, so I’ve done my best to keep it short and to the point.

I’m honored to serve as your new President of IABC/Chicago. I appreciate your trust and support and extend a special thanks to our former President, Justin Brunner, and his Board. Bravo for a terrific job during the 2012-2013 membership year! Their great work makes it both easy and difficult for new Board members – easy because there is a strong foundation of work to build on and difficult because it’s a tough act to follow.

I’m confident that our new Board members are up to the challenge. I see a lot of talent, passion and humor within this group. Let’s get started!

Who is your new President? As a member of IABC since 2000, I can say firsthand what a wonderful experience it is to be part of this organization. I’ve served on two different chapter Boards – IABC/Cleveland and IABC/Chicago – in a variety of capacities, including Membership Director, awards/judging and as part of the Executive Committee. I also served on the Heritage Region Board as a Chapter Liaison and as a Conference Co-chair. I got involved for two reasons – I believe in IABC, and someone asked me to serve. Want two more reasons? I wanted to build my network and my resume.

IABC/Chicago is more than a monthly luncheon and an occasional webcast or networking event. Members are all colleagues in a common, yet so varied, profession. We share similar experiences, career challenges and educational needs. We have a desire to help develop newcomers to the profession and to give back to the community. And we like to have fun while doing it!

I look forward to a great year and would love to meet many more members. If you’re interested in learning more about IABC/Chicago or the communications profession, want to build your professional network or develop your skills, please consider getting involved. You can give as little or as much time as you want. Email volunteer@iabcchicago.com to get started.

Here’s to a great year,

Connie Mayse
2013-14 President, IABC/Chicago