North Country Human Resources Association

As I assume the office of President of the NCHRA on January 1, 2012 I reflect on these past twelve months working with this fantastic Board of Directors. This has truly been an outstanding group beginning with our leader Kathy Scheible. What an extraordinary job she has done. At a time when most chapters are losing membership, under her leadership this chapter has grown to over 107. She was asked to speak on a panel at our last NYSHRM Leadership Conference about ways to grow chapter membership. Kathy was very impressive and represented us extremely well. What an outstanding role model!

Another leader of this group is Gil Pearsall. Gil held the “Past President” designation in 2011 and was, among other things, the editor of our monthly newsletter. In addition to being a past President, Gil held the position of Vice President and I am sure about a dozen other offices and chairs. Gil will be stepping down this year for a much deserved break from the Board. I want to personally thank him for his service! Gil has been instrumental in moving this organization forward.

Also leaving the Board is our Vice President Lisa Storey. Remember the great conference we had last June? The one that received outstanding reviews from all of you? Lisa led that effort with a professionalism that was very impressive. We all felt comfortable working with her. When I think of Lisa, I think of one of those really great leaders that can rally support and make it look easy. Thank you Lisa, you will be missed!

One of the most important tasks your Board is responsible for is SHAPE Compliance. This is the standard by which the National SHRM ensures every Chapter meets a certain level of excellence. Jeanette Hardy has been the person responsible for leading this effort, and what a great job she has done! Her organization skills and subject matter knowledge are beyond reproach. I have been impressed with her high level of dedication to the Board. She has been a treasure!

Finally Lisa Bowhall ends her term on the Board in 2011. Lisa has been our Chapter Marketing Director and all around team player. We thank Lisa for her contributions.

As we lose some great Board Members this year I am glad to say we are welcoming some great additions as well. Margaret LaVancha is our new Vice President, Dennis Baeslack is our new President Elect, Trisha Seymour and Mike Russell assume new Board positions. Welcome! Also, Kathy Scheible will remain on the Board as Past President, Cherie Moore continues as our Treasurer, Luanne Van Brocklin remains our Secretary, Deborah Wilson and April Fallon also return as Board Members. This is a great group that I look forward to working with this year.

I am very excited about this upcoming year and look forward to serving as your new President. I have big shoes to fill, but with the help of this strong Board we plan to keep the momentum going by continuing to grow our membership, promote the Human Resources Profession and serve you at the highest possible level.

Sincerely,

Ross Wachowski

President,

North Country Human Resources Association, Inc.