IEEE has always been, and must continue to be, a member centered organization, dedicated not only to furthering the profession in general, but the careers of its members in particular. It must remain responsive to our members needs, both technical and non-technical. While some of those needs are fulfilled by our societies, many others are satisfied at the local, Section level. It is the Region’s responsibility to provide training, guidance, coordination and assistance to the Sections in providing for those needs. I believe that my twelve years of experience as a member of the Region 1 Executive Committee, as well as my people oriented attitudes uniquely qualifies me to election as Region 1 Director-Elect.

As Region1 Director-Elect, I will endeavor to work for the benefit of our members. I will apply my communication and leadership skills to foster cooperation and collaboration between the Region 1 Sections and the various committees of which the Board of Governors is comprised. I will bring these same skills to bear when working with the IEEE and IEEE-USA Boards for the benefit of IEEE members in general, and Region 1 members particular. As Region 1 Secretary for twelve years, member of the Board of Governors of the Engineering Management Society for four years, Chair of the Tellers Committee, as well as a member of other IEEE committees, have worked with all levels of IEEE leadership. I have gained a deep understanding of the operation of IEEE. I will bring my IEEE and my industry and academic leadership experience to the position of Region 1 Director-Elect.

As Region Director I will:

• Increase corporate involvement and sponsorship of Section programs to allow for a greater breadth and depth of those programs.

• Develop a mentoring program for GOLD members.

• Develop a survey to determine the programs that would attract new members, and work with the IEEE BoD to implement those programs.

• Work to increase the participation of younger members in leadership positions.

The position of IEEE Director-Elect is an important one in several respects. First, it places one on the Region ExCom, helping to shape the direction the Region takes in providing services to our members. The Director-Elect is involved in all decision making process, including the disbursement of SSVR and PACE funds. He/she helps to also determine the use of discretionary seed funding to assist member Sections in developing programs for their members. In addition, the Director-Elect is directly responsible for the development of the annual summer Leadership Workshop for our Section ExComs.

Second, when the Director-Elect becomes the Region Director, he/she becomes a member of both the IEEE and IEEE-USA Boards of Directors. In this capacity he/she works with other members of both Boards to shape the strategic direction of IEEE. The Director must have a thorough understanding of the operations of the IEEE, possess strong communications and leadership skills, and have a passion for our profession and our members.

I am committed to both helping members of our profession to improve their skills, and to enhancing the standing of that profession in the public’s view. I have been an IEEE volunteer for twenty five years because I believe that the services the IEEE provides our members are very important in both these areas. I am prepared to continue serving our members and will devote the necessary time and energy to ensure I am an effective Region 1 Director-Elect.

I welcome your feedback and questions.