It is with great anticipation that I approach my first year as one of your Institute Directors. I have no idea what the next three years will be like for me, but I am looking forward to the challenge of guiding the South Central Region into the future. I anticipate some hard work ahead of me, but I know there will be some great times had and wonderful relationships forged.

Why in the world would I want to take this job on? This has been asked of me by family, friends and some associates. Is it about the great pay (Let’s get real)? Was it for the opportunity to work with Grady for a year (Really now)? Is it for the status? No, I’ll tell you why I ventured out of my comfortable position as a Dallas CSI Board member. Since 1995 CSI has given me many opportunities, personally and professionally. CSI has helped me to develop my leadership skills, it has allowed me to use my talents, and it has strengthened my relationships with professional and industry members. CSI has never said “Thanks, but no thanks”. It has served as my mentor and educator. As a result, I have a desire to give back as much as I have gained.

I have often heard it said that you get out of something that which you put into it. I am a firm believer in this. For my first two years in CSI, I was content to sit on the sidelines and just belong. Funny thing is that nothing happened. At the end of two years I was in the same place when I first joined. When I got involved, things began to change and for the better. The list is too long to go into here with the short amount of space I have for this article, but let me just ask you to refer to some of my previous statements.

I’ve stolen a quote from another region that I heard last year and I’d like you to give it some thought; “Leadership is not a Spectator Sport”  Don’t be content with being a spectator. Nothing changes unless there are those who are willing to step up to the line.

Come join me in the adventure I am embarking on over the next three years.