Thursday, March 26, 2015

Chapter leaders assemble in Lawrence

The 2015 Chapter Leaders Symposium just concluded in Lawrence, Kan., and I am proud to say the NW was well represented this year. Chapter leaders from Idaho, Peaks & Prairies, Inland Empire, Rocky Mountain and the Intermountain were all in attendance.

Besides the opportunity to network with chapter leaders from across the country, participants were treated to first-class hospitality and a full day and a half of education and updates on GCSAA programs. Attending this year from the NW were Wade Altschwager of Peaks & Prairies, James Curdy of Inland Empire, and Gerald Flaherty, CGCS of Idaho, all arriving with Lori Russell. Intermountain’s executive, Natalie Barker, attended, as did Joe Putnam, along with Gary Leeper of the Rocky Mountain GCSA.

Michael Bostian from Waverly Woods Golf Club in Westminster, Md., wrote the following to Leann Cooper, GCSAA's senior manager of chapter services: "I gained exposure to several areas that will help our association in the near future…it was first class from start to finish."

I can personally attest that being with the rising leaders of my region provided me the opportunity to get to know each a little better. It forged lines of communication between me and other GCSAA staff and these chapter leaders as they guide their associations.

Reflecting back to my first visit to Lawrence as a superintendent, I remember the sense of how strong our association is and the level at which I was being represented. If you have ever considered becoming more involved at the chapter level, I would strongly encourage you to seek a board position and work to become a representative from your chapter to attend the Chapter Leaders Symposium. It is a rewarding experience and will help you get the most from your membership.