March 2012

We all know how important teamwork is to the success of an event.  Well, I had an opportunity to view first hand a different form of teamwork in action.  Attending my first "Team Roping" event in Salado, Texas was an exciting learning experience for me.  James Scott, husband of Nita, our Membership Administrator, is a team roper. During this event he was randonly chosen to team up with a partner.  While on horseback,one partner needed to rope the horms of a steer and the other the legs in a quick paced timed event. They both brought talent, skill and experience. All wonderful qualities that I hope one brings to a team.

February 2012

We all need to take time to relax.  It is even better when you can get away.  I was able to do this and spend time with family. Puerto Vallarta was the destination of a mini family vacation.  I joined my mom, sister, brother-in-law, niece and nephew for a wonderful relaxing vacation.  They traveled from Connecticut and I met them in Mexico.  During our special time together, we experienced an extreme dolphin swim that proved to be very exciting. It was amazing to dive underwater being led by two dolphins. I came back tanned and very relaxed. Take time for yourself.  It can be energizing!

January 2012

During the holidays, I hope many of you had a chance to visit with family. I always look forward to a trip back to Conncecticut where I gather with my mom, all my brothers and sisters, all their spouses, and especially my eight nieces and nephews.  It is a special time to be together and truly appreciate family.  Our family members all make that extra effort to travel and be together for traditional events and just fun time together.  As you can see, I am training them to be Univeristy of Texas fans!

December 2011

The Get Motivated! Business Seminar in Austin was an exciting event that offered inspirational thoughts on perserverance, success, investing, sales & negotiation, competitiveness, leadership, motivation, management and excellence. Featured speakers were Rudy Giuliani, Mary Buffet, Krish Dhanam, Mary Lou Retton, General Colin Powell, Lou Holtz, Howard Putnam, General Stanley McChrystal and Bill Cosby. I left this successful seminar inspired!

November 2011

On October 31 and November 1, I attended the second part of the four part series for The Business of Meetings Certificate Program sponsored by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).  The course was Leadership and Communication. The course was designed to help me

Ø  Assess my own leadership strengths and styles

Ø  Develop my leadership skills based on several criteria, including being a change and creativity agent

Ø  Practice my communication skills, including listening, delegating, presenting, persuading, facilitating and providing and receiving feedback

Ø  Understand different forms of decision-making and when they are appropriate

Ø  Manage my relationships and interpersonal skills with my staff, peers, committees, boards, industry partners, and other key stakeholders

Ø  Create a climate of inclusiveness that promotes understanding and respect for diversity and exemplifies the highest ethical conduct.

This experience was insightful and gave me an opportunity to reflect and develop my skills.

October 2011

The Grand Canyon was breathtaking! I had the opportunity to join some friends from Connecticut and visit the Grand Canyon, Meteor Crater, Flagstaff, Phoenix and Sedona for a few days this month. It was a tranquil experience!

September 2011

September begins the football season at the University of Texas.  I had an opportunity to attend the opening game with Marilyn Gregory from my DKG Golden Gift Leadership Management Seminar. UT won their first game and hopefully this is a sign of an exciting season.  This is another example of how friendships through DKG can last a lifetime.