In 1991 I joined BPW in St. Ignace under the watchful eye of Jean Kalbfleisch, a former teacher and long time friend.  Remembering back to those days, I cannot tell you the pride I felt when that local vested their trust in me to serve as a local president.  I was very proud to say that I Mary Macqueen was the president of a very visible and active local organization.  I was proud of what we stood for and the activities that we supported.  I also remember attending my first board meeting and convention.  That was the memory that sticks so clearly in my mind.  At that first convention, we as local presidents were recognized for OUR contributions to this very worthwhile organization. 

Now, I might be speaking to the choir, those of us that have served in this role as local president not once but multiple times.  You should still be proud to be representing YOUR local organization.   

This year as you may or may not know, BPW/Michigan is forging a new path.  Moving from having two board meetings and a convention to having just two meetings a year a Fall Board and a Board/Convention in May.  Local Presidents will play a vital role in the vision and direction of this organization.  Beginning with Fall Board, local presidents will have a vote at all board meetings.  Having this input from the grassroots level is so important.  Letting the executive board know what is happening, the challenges you are facing and more is crucial to the life of this organization.  It is very important that local organizations support their presidents or other members to attend these meetings.  It is appropriate for you to offer funding to support both registration and lodging as possible.  Fundraising activities of your local can support 15% of the profits for general operating costs of your organization.  Develop a budget that includes this support for your officers. 

Being a member of BPW has been a rewarding experience for me over the last 16 years, I served in many positions including State President, but I must tell you that first convention still sticks in my memory.  I hope that you will have an opportunity to share in that memory by attending the Fall Board meeting.   

Registration forms for this event have been sent to you by President Modlin.  Make sure you send them in or register on line.