Richard Anthony Baker

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

12 years

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking?

I have nonprofit management experience including fundraising, public relations/marketing, growing membership, training and development of personnel, conference planning and providing organizational leadership at all levels.

Have you ever held any position within AAAED level? If so, in what capacity and when?

Regional Director (Southwest and Rocky Mountain Region), National Title IX Training Director, PDTI Trainer (provided various training on Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA, EEO Law, and Complaint Processing and Resolution), National Conference Member, National Conference Chair, and President.

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments.

I served as the regional director and during my tenure I hosted a national conference in my region (New Orleans) where I also served as the national conference chair. As the president of AAAED, I led the organization through the Covid 19 pandemic, co-authored of the a well cited report regarding “Campus Civility, Hate and Bias”(https://www.aaaed.org/aaaed/LEAD_Fund_Project_on_Campus_Civility.asp), cited in national publications representing AAAED (Inside Higher Ed, Chronicle of Higher Ed, US News, Insight in Diversity to name a few), signed an MOU with AAAED and the Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy, joined a lawsuit against the Trump administration to protect DEI training, and contributed to one of the most financially successful periods in recent AAAED history.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity? 

• Regional Director 2011 - 2018
• Past President 2018 - 2022

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

I hope to achieve four things as president. First, I want to provide leadership and direction to equal opportunity professionals (EOPs) in this period of change. With the challenges facing affirmative action and DEI, EOPs are looking for support and strategies to fight the wave of efforts counter to ours which is rooted in civil rights. With the support of our membership, I would commit to regular virtual and in person visits to each region to not only grow the membership but to remind members and their organizations how to be an inclusive leader within current law (i.e., ADA, Title VI and Title VII of the CRA and Title IX, etc). Secondly, during my visits I intend to invest time on-campuses establishing student chapter’s of AAAED. Without a national DEI organization for students, we will lay the foundation and infrastructure to help foster the next generation of EOP talent. Third, I want to work with the Dept of Education, DOL, OFCCP and the EEOC to deliver more guidance around DEI and explore the possibility of lobbying for an executive order that prohibits anti-DEI legislation or at least classifies states and organization's that ban DEI as ineligible for federal funds for violating Title VI or for its unconstitutionality (vague, overly broad). Fourth, I want to explore the possibility of AAAED partnering with other like organizations (or go it alone) in launching a national legal strategy to fight against anti-DEI legislation that may be unconstitutional. My vision is clear, I intend to get us into the good fight that our members want AAAED to be in.

What short and long term goals would you like to see AAAED fufill?

Short term (two years) goals are simple: 1) immediately launch a fundraising campaign for AAAED’s 50th anniversary and establish a $1 million endowment, 2) grow our membership in the regions incrementally by 30%, 3) establish college chapters to foster a pipeline of students and mentor/train/prepare them for equal opportunity advocacy, 4) expand course offerings for PDTI to the extent that we can grow AAAED finances well enough to hire two more personnel, and 5) get back on the national radar through media and marketing. Long term (2 plus years) goals are also simple: 1) Lay the groundwork for a national relevance, including implementing a litigation strategy against anti-DEI and other efforts that work against the inclusion of disenfranchised, historically underutilized population, 2) Formalize partnerships with NADOHE and others for a unique conference and certification model, 3) Bring greater accountability within the organization so that we are aligned on growth and leading in the spaces we occupy.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting these goals?

To be clear, I can assist AAAED in meeting the goals I identified because I have a track record with AAAED and I know I can deliver this vision. I see my primary role of president as the person responsible for moving this organization forward. I will continue in that effort by making sure we have alignment and accountability throughout the regions and at the leadership level. I will also generate excitement around AAAED and make sure I visit each region so that people can hear the vision live and in person.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

Yes - we grow the membership by inspiring people, by building on the momentum these recent attacks have made, and by being accessible in media, in op-eds, in social media and beyond. We must be at the forefront of everyone’s mind when they think DE&I, EEO, affirmative action and justice.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

Yes, my employer supports DEI. First example is that we have two mandatory four week courses for students. One is called Critical Thinking in Sexuality (Title IX training and beyond) and Critical Discussions on DIversity (Diversity training). While many schools may have similar courses, very few if any makes a four week diversity course mandatory. Also, we are committed to DE&I in the workplace by have mandatory DE&I training within 30 days of being hired (onboarded), a DE&I office central to campus (Office of the Provost and then within the colleges (Jones school of Business has a DE&I office) as well as employing other decentralized DE&I personnel. Rice also has two employee resource groups (Rice African American Network) and Rice PRIDE for Staff.

Annette D. Butler

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

I have been a member of AAAED for approximately 24 years.

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking?

I am the current AAAED President (2022-2024).

In my current role as Director of the Training & Compliance I negotiate service level agreements (SLA) with colleges/divisions regarding the education of their employees (faculty, staff, and student workers) to complete their Title IX, equity, and compliance related education/training annually. The SLA format has been shared with other universities as a method to increase the education of the community on equity and compliance topics. This year a program that I designed focused on the education of women (Women at Work Series) celebrated 21 years and received a proclamation from Fulton County (GA) Government for the impact on the lives of women. I am also responsible for facilitating educational sessions related to equity and compliance, which includes webinars, creating recordings of sessions for future use, and developing courses in iCollege with quizzes. Additionally, through the University System of Georgia, I am a Green Belt Lean Six Sigma for Higher Education, which allows me to identify ways to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

In my previous role as President of the University System of Georgia (USG) Equity and Compliance Officers Association, in collaboration with the executive committee, I negotiated with sponsors, speakers, and vendors for conferences, workshops, and educational sessions. In the past, I also facilitated the AAAED relationships with the USG Equity and Compliance Officers Association and the Atlanta Diversity Management Alliance Group (ADMAG).

Other non-profit board experience include: United States Tennis Association (USTA) Board Member Southern Region Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Committee (2019-2020), USTA Southern Region D&I Champion Subcommittee (2019-2020) Vice Chair, Southern Region D&I Board (2021-2022) Diversity Advocate, Southern Region D&I Committee (2021-2022) Member, Southern Region Rules and Constitution Committee, Junior League of Atlanta, Incorporated Sustainer Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (2018-2020).

Have you ever held any position within AAAED level? If so, in what capacity and when? 

Yes, I have held positions within AAAED. The positions held include: 

• Current President (2022-2024)
• Region Director for the Southeast Region (2015-2022)
• Conference Planning Committee member since 2018 when Georgia hosted the National Conference and Annual Meeting
• Professional Development and Training Institute Committee Member
• Served in past dual role of State Coordinator for Georgia and Alternate Region Director for the Southeast Region

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

AAAED President (2022-2024):

During my first year as President, I implemented a three pillar (infrastructure, membership, and education) plan for improving AAAED. The following has been accomplished:

Infrastructure

• Appointed a Personnel Committee
• Develop a job description and performance evaluation instrument for the AAAED Executive Director. 
• Work with the AAAED General Counsel to re-establish a contract for the Executive Director, whose contract ended in 2019.
• Appointed a Chair, Bylaws & Resolutions Committee
• Review and revise the bylaws to align with our organizational scope and practices as AAAED moves forward.
• Now collaborating with General Counsel through the review and revision process and the recommended changes will be distributed to the membership in advance for a future vote.
• Appointed Conference Co-Chairs for the 50th year celebration of AAAED, who developed a year-long celebration plan.
• Continued work on the financial health of the organization.
• Continued to focus on protecting the AAAED brand.
• Appointment Regional Directors to vacant positions (Southeast, Rocky Mountain, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic)
• Appointed a Direct-At-Large focused on Member Resources and Research 
• Implemented a focus on regions via odd years focused on regional membership through summits/symposiums.
• Appointment of the Chair of Online Presence and Technical Advisor to improve the website and presence of AAAED online.
• Appointed Public Information Chair
• Re-appointed PDTI Chair, Pacific and Northeast Regional Directors, and Federal Relations Director-At-Large
• Reviewed accessibility of current platforms (GoTo and Zoom) used for PDTI courses. 
• Identified best platforms moving forward for PDTI courses and AAAED business.
• Created AAAED.org email addresses, if needed, for the officers and Board members to avoid any conflict of interest with their places of employment. 
• Created a cloud storage for AAAED documents and records v. being maintained on individuals’ personal computers.

Membership 

• Survey of membership to determine wants/needs.
• Listened to members and received feedback during business meeting.
• The Board approved regional summits/symposiums during odd numbered years with a focus on improving member networking, education, funding, etc. in the regions.
• The Board approved national conferences to be held during even numbered years to focus on regions during odd years.
• Symposium template, used in the Southeast Region, distributed to Regional Directors for use in their regions.

Education 

• Resumed the rigorous examination of the Senior Certified Affirmative Action Professional certification, which ended in 2014. 
• PDTI Chair and Committee completed an informational manual for participants and presenters.
• Requested proposal of PDTI Chair and Committee regarding payment of PDTI presenters

AAAED Southeast Region Director (2015 – 2022):

• Served as host for the 2018 National Conference and Business Meeting
• Individuals appointed in all regional positions except for three. 
• Hosted the PDTI and Title IX Institute in partnership with Georgia State University for three years attracting attendees from around the U.S.
• Hosted the Southeast member luncheon. 
• Established relationships with the Atlanta Diversity Management Advocacy Group (ADMAG) and the USG Equity and Compliance Officers Association 
• Continue to have funds in the Southeast Region account.

Dual role of State Coordinator for Georgia and Alternate Southeast Regional Director (2008 – 2015):

• Georgia hosted a Symposium which contributed to the Region continuing to be financially sound. This allowed the Region to, on more than one occasion, provide financial support to the national office.
• AAAED also partnered with Georgia State University to host the Professional Development and Training Institute (PDTI) for approximately four years. 
• Facilitated regional meetings in the absence of the Regional Director AAAED National Conference Planning Committee (2018-2022)
• Served as host for the 2018 National Conference and Business Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia
• Secured Chief Diversity Officer for Major League Baseball as keynote speaker. 
• Secured the 2018 Drum Major for Justice Award recipient (Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian)
• Secured 2018 Proclamation from the City of Atlanta 
• Facilitated partnership with ADMAG for the conference.

AAAED Professional Development and Training Institute Committee:

• Provide feedback on the annual training brochure. 
• Facilitate educational sessions and/or serve as a panelist.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity? 

• AAAED President (2022-2024)
• AAAED Southeast Region Director (2015 – 2022)
• Dual role of State Coordinator for Georgia and Alternate Southeast Regional Director (2008 – 2015)
• AAAED National Conference Planning Committee (2018-Present)
• AAAED Professional Development and Training Institute Committee

What short and long term goals would you like to see AAAED fufill?

Short Term Goals 

• Continue with focus on the three pillars (infrastructure, membership, and education)
• Revise the website for accessibility.
• Secure meeting and training platforms that are accessible.
• Continue to protect the AAAED brand. 
• Continue rebuilding the regions by focusing on recruitment, engagement, and retention.
• Encourage members to identify committee(s) to serve on
• Secure a consultant agreement for the AAAED Bookkeeper.

Long-Term Goals

• Develop a strategic plan.
• Secure certification for PDTI programs by the appropriate accrediting body to maintain national recognition. 
• Expand student membership. 
• Develop relationships with HBCUs.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting these goals?

• Work with the Online Presence and Technical Advisor committee 
• Support Regional Directors in implementing the Symposium template and identifying potential attendees/members. 
• Identify a facilitator to facilitate a Board retreat to begin work on the strategic plan.
• Identify a consultant to work on certification for PDTI programs.
• Identify an ad hoc committee to determine the benefits of student membership.
• Continue the work with the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs on its HBCU initiative.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

• Continue to rebuild the regions is key to increasing the AAAED membership.
• Implementing the recommendations, where possible, submitted by members via the surveys completed and business meeting feedback during the first year of my administration.
• Continue to re-engage the membership. 
• Update the website and ensure that it is accessible.
• Select a platform that is accessible for AAAED business and PDTI courses.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace? 

Georgia State University supports access, equity, and diversity in the workplace. Two examples that demonstrate such support follows:

I. Task Force for Racial Equality

In 2020, the Office of the Provost examined diversity, equity and inclusion at Georgia State, assessing where the university is, the further moves the university should make and how to put the recommendations of the Commission on the Next Generation of Faculty – the university’s effort to foster diversity, equity and inclusion in recruitment, retention and engagement of faculty – into action. Following the senseless deaths of George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery, in addition to those of Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks and countless other Black Americans, these efforts must accelerate. As an institution of higher education, it is the university's responsibility to foster difficult conversations and identify solutions. President Mark Becker and Provost Wendy Hensel established the Task Force for Racial Equality in June 2020 to address these issues, foster the conversations, and identify solutions that the university can place into action for its students, faculty, staff, and our society. Additional information on the Task Force Reports and University Action Plan is available at https://dei.gsu.edu/about/task-force/.

II. The Strategic Plan (2023-2033)

There are four pillars that guide Georgia State. The President’s pillar is Identity, Placemaking and Belonging. The pillar states: We are one of the most diverse institutions in one of the fastest-moving cities. Our campus spaces must be the most inviting and rewarding for our students’ collective experience. On the Atlanta Campus, Georgia State can become a “college town downtown,” a sought-after destination for students. Additional information about the strategic plan is available at https://strategic.gsu.edu/. More information about Georgia State’s commitment to belonging is available at https://belonging.gsu.edu/about/.

Ahmed Younies                          

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

Since late nineties.

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking? 

Head of Membership benefits at the Employers Group (a non-profit organization)

Have you ever held any position within AAAED at any level? If so, in what capacity and when?

Regional Director of Pacific Region

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

Previously, I was a member of the marketing committee to promote the annual conference. As a regional director, I made a couple of financial contributions, up to $10,000 each.

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

My goal is to increase the annual revenue to a minimum of $500,000 per year. Our AAAED is currently struggling to survive due to an alarming deterioration in revenue. Being a member for more than two decades, and believing in its mission, I am determined to stop and reverse the financial decline. My experience in building profitable businesses, along with holding leadership positions with companies such as Textron, Northrop, and Employers Group (a non-profit organization) will be imperative to attain the goal of bringing AAAED to a viable business to sustain its mission.

What short and long-term goals would you like to see AAAED fulfill?

Short-term goal: Double membership by end of first year, as a president.

Long-term goal: AAAED to be financially healthy enough to be able to advocate the cause for its existence, fighting discrimination.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting those goals?

Membership campaign, building a resourceful online library and adding more needed benefits, enhancing the quality of membership benefits, creating a and building a faculty of competent faculty volunteers to deliver quality training/presentations.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

Need to evaluate the current benefits of membership, survey current members and potential prospects in the HR community for their benefits expectations to become members. Build an attractive package of benefits. Plan and implement a marketing campaign to promote membership benefits.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

Yes. Our current staff represents a diverse group of employees. Tuition reimbursement to acquire skills and help with career development.

Joshua Hayes                            

 How long have you been a member of AAAED?

Approximately 18 years.

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking? 

More than 18 years of experience within AAAED, and employment within higher education, investigations, leadership, conflict assessment/management/resolution, for example.

Have you ever held any position within AAAED at any level? If so, in what capacity and when?

State Coordinator for Kentucky; Alternative Regional Director (Southeast); Regional Director (Southeast); Bylaws and Resolution Committee; Regional Director (Mid-Atlantic).

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

Co-Chaired AAAED 40th Annual Conference in Nashville, TN; As the State Coordinator for Kentucky, co-chaired and hosted three regional symposiums at Western Kentucky University for Region IV; As the State Coordinator of Kentucky, co-chaired and partnered with OCR to host a symposium at the University of Louisville; As Regional Director (Southeast) began working with team to re-institute regional symposiums.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity?

Mid-Atlantic Regional Director; Bylaws and Resolution Committee

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

Assisting AAAED with increasing it's membership, financial prosperity, regional symposiums, and national conferences.

What short and long-term goals would you like to see AAAED fulfill?

Assisting AAAED with increasing it's membership, financial prosperity, regional symposiums, and national conferences.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting those goals?

Implementing my more than 18 years of experience within AAAED, and employment within higher education, investigations, leadership, conflict assessment/management/resolution, for example.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

Remaining authentic and thoughtful in my communication and outreach with individuals within my region and nationally, continuing to be a person of my word, and lead/serve in any capacity needed.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

Absolutely; a supervisor who serves as the Vice President of Inclusion and Institutional Equity, in addition to our overall University who has our office within every thread of the organization.

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

Since 2008 I believe.

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking? 

I have served on the Boards of AAAED, LEAD Fund, Ames Library Friends Foundation as Treasurer, Ames NAACP Treasurer, Iowa Children and Families, Financial Secretary of multiple faith organizations.

Have you ever held any position within AAAED at any level? If so, in what capacity and when?

I have served two terms as AAAED Second Vice President.

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

During my tenure as a Board member I feel that I have helped the Association in achieving its goal of providing top notch training and education regarding issues of equity and affirmative action as PDTI faculty and National Conference presentation, acting as a liaison between the Board and the National Conference Committee, providing voice to key government agencies such as ODEP through EARN, engagement with the Bidden transitional team, and providing sage consult to the President and 2nd Vice President as they requested.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity?

Second Vice President, 2018-2024

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

I hope to attribute to sound management and communication regarding the associations budget and financial outlook so it can operate in good stewardship and provide meaningful experiences for its members.

What short and long-term goals would you like to see AAAED fulfill?

Increased and retention of its membership. Gain more partner opportunities. Increase quality and breath of for-pay and free trainings and education. Secure large corporate sponsorships and contracts.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting those goals?

Remain engaged with the Executive board members as growth implementation occurs. Keep abreast of current partnership and sponsorship opportunities and follow up on leads given. Maintain good financial records that facilitate service planning.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

Yes, I believe the best way o increase membership is at the regional level. I support any action steps needed to re-engage our regional membership and support regional directors in their efforts to grow local memberships.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

Yes

Joyce Pratt

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

AAAED Membership since 2012 (approximate)

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking? 

 Business management and marketing, legislative adovocacy, and fundraising. I am currently a candidate for County Executive for Atlantic County, NJ for vote in the November 7, 2023 election. The major duties of this position are county finances - building and monitoring a budget, finding new sources of revenue, and applying for grant funds through collaboration with applicable departments. My supporters believe I have these qualifications. 

Have you ever held any position within AAAED at any level? If so, in what capacity and when?

• AAAA 2012 Conference Sponsorship Chair,
• AAAA Regional II Director (2010-14 approximately)
• AAAED Board Secretary 2018-2021

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

AAAED Sponsorship Chair raised the most funds; and AAAED Board Secretary recommended for nomination for 2014. As AAAA regional director recruited new members especially one from the Virgin Islands and convinced Charlie Williams to succeed me.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity?

AKA/TKO Connections Chair, GNJUWF Communications Coordinator, GNJUWF Legislative Advocacy, AAAED 2012-14 Sponsorship Chair raised most funds, NJ United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Sponsorship Chair (approximately 2010) raised most funds, Trump Plaza EEO Manager, NJ Transit EEO Investigator/Trainer, T&J Associates of NJ LLC (owner/operator) small business financial management and grant writing. 

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

Legislative advocacy to complement AAAED legislative outreach and AAAED increased membership and financial support. 

What short and long-term goals would you like to see AAAED fulfill?

Legislative advocacy and major membership increases. 

How can you assist AAAED in meeting those goals?

I can assist through brainstorming, applicable outreach, and my education and experience reflected above. Each year mankind performs in a different manner, often to the detriment of his kind. AAAED and like-kind organizations must be alert to such changes by cooperating and brainstorming or new human rights solutions, to include prayers. We now need more than speeches and articles and must pursue social action. I have been fortunate enough to work with groups with this mission and can share it with AAAED's methods. 

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

I have not given this thoughts in great depth due to current commitments. But commit to do so if my nomination proves successful. 

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

I am currently self-employed and have always supported access, equity and diversity in the workplace, as well as equitable support for each issue.

Michael Snowden

How long have you been a member of AAAED?

I have been a member since 2015.

What specific skills and experiences do you bring to the position you are seeking? 

My specialization in diversity and inclusion within higher education, along with my role as the Chief Diversity Officer, highlights my expertise in leading initiatives that promote diversity and create inclusive environments within academic institutions.

My involvement in various professional associations, including the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education and the American Association for Access, Equity, and Diversity, demonstrates my commitment to community engagement and ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

I have led and managed teams in my role as a leader in higher education. I excel in building and motivating teams to achieve common goals, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

I am an effective communicator. I do not shy away from complex conversations. I am a servant leader; my style encompasses serving and uplifting others. These skills and abilities collectively demonstrate my capacity for effective leadership, particularly in the domains of diversity and inclusion, educational administration, and community engagement.

Have you ever held any position within AAAED at any level? If so, in what capacity and when?

I have had the honor of serving as the Chair of the Nominating and Elections Committee since the beginning of 2022.

For each AAAED position served, list your accomplishments. 

During my tenure as chair, I implemented the inclusion of a video message as a new component in the candidate portfolio.

Have you served or currently serve in a board capacity?

I have had the honor of serving as the Chair of the Nominating and Elections Committee since the beginning of 2022.

What do you hope to achieve if you are elected?

My vision for our association is to ensure that our leadership represents the very values we stand for. If elected, I pledge to:

Promote Fair and Inclusive Elections: I will work tirelessly to guarantee transparent, equitable, and accessible elections that reflect our commitment to diversity.

Identify Outstanding Talent: I will actively seek out and nominate individuals from diverse backgrounds who can contribute fresh perspectives and ideas to our mission.

Strengthen Our Association: I am dedicated to fostering a united and inclusive membership, where every voice is heard and valued.

What short and long-term goals would you like to see AAAED fulfill?

Immediate Goals (Short-term):

In the short term, my objectives are to:

1. Boost Membership: Increase our membership base through targeted recruitment efforts.
2. Elevate Professional Development: Sustain the delivery of top-tier professional development opportunities.
3. Enhance Member Engagement: Foster deeper member involvement and participation.

Future Aspirations (Long-term):

Over the long term, my ambitions include:

1. Global Expansion: Extend our presence to other countries and establish a global footprint.
2. Financial Strength: Bolster the financial stability and sustainability of our association.
3. Regional Membership Growth: Develop our regional branches into key hubs for membership expansion.

How can you assist AAAED in meeting those goals?

As a member of AAAED, I view it as my duty and responsibility to contribute to the group's success by actively participating in achieving its goals.

These goals can be categorized into two main areas:

Immediate Goals:

1. Boost Membership:

• Utilize my platform and professional network to promote AAAED.
• Personally reach out to my colleagues, emphasizing the benefits of AAAED membership.
• Collaborate with my regional leadership team to create engagement opportunities.

2. Elevate Professional Development:

• Proudly display my AAAED credentials.
• Encourage others to seize the development opportunities available.
• Offer my services as a facilitator when possible,

3. Enhance Member Engagement

• Actively participate in AAAED events, discussions, and online communities.
• Take a leadership role in driving member engagement efforts.

Long-Term Goals:

1. Global Expansion:

• Conduct research to identify potential international markets where AAAED's mission and services can make an impact.
• Advocate for the development and execution of a global expansion strategy.

2. Financial Strength:

• Engage proactively in fundraising activities.
• Continue to fulfill my membership dues promptly.
• Assist in securing sponsorships and partnerships.

3. Regional Membership Growth:

• Actively participate in events organized by the Southeast regional branch.
• Play a role in identifying and engaging stakeholders who share our interests.

Have you given any thought as to how to increase AAAED membership and how to increase services to members? If so, what are those thoughts and solutions?

I believe that AAAED can further increase its membership and enhance services to members through a combination of regional engagement initiatives and thoughtful outreach activities. Regional engagement can play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and connection among members, making it more attractive to potential members.

Additionally, implementing wellness check-ins is a great way to ensure that members are not only benefiting professionally but also maintaining stable psychological well-being. These check-ins can help create a supportive environment within AAAED and demonstrate the organization's commitment to the holistic well-being of its members.

By combining regional engagement efforts with wellness initiatives and other outreach activities, AAAED can continue to grow its membership base and provide valuable services that cater to the diverse needs of its members.

Does your employer support access, equity and diversity in the workplace?

The President of Georgia College and State University is wholeheartedly dedicated to advancing access, equity, and diversity. As a testament to this commitment, she has taken the following actions:

Supporting Professional Development: In pursuit of professional growth, she has generously sponsored ten members of our institution to attend the National Conference on Race and Ethnicity.

Financial Backing for Inclusivity Initiatives: Further exemplifying her commitment, she has allocated additional funding to our budget. This funding has enabled the successful execution of two impactful initiatives: Making Excellence Inclusive Day and the dinner with twelve strangers event. Both events have played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of belonging on our campus.

These actions underscore her unwavering dedication to promoting an inclusive environment within our university community.