Members come first, says outgoing governor

I hope you’ll allow me some personal reflections as I step off the National Press Club Board of Governors following a nine-year tenure.

My primary goal over the years has been to build bridges between Communicator and Journalist members. There was a time not that long ago when we communicators were merely tolerated. That had to change. After all, we represent a large percentage of Club membership and have a stake in the Club’s success.

Much headway has been made. How did this progress come about? It is largely thanks to many of the colleagues I’ve had the honor of serving with — Governors Shawn Bullard, Anthony Shop, Tom McMahon, Lindsay Murphy and Andy Fisher. Working as a cohesive delegation, we forged a strong team that has contributed much to the Club and our members. We are in good shape going forward as Lindsay and Andy, along with new Governor Danny Selnick, carry forth the tradition.

Several past Club presidents like Jeff Ballou, Myron Belkind, and Tommy Burr also played leading roles. In their remarks and in their actions, these Club leaders consistently recognized the contributions of Communicator members. Future presidents would be wise to follow their spirit of inclusiveness.

I also owe a debt of thanks to all the Communicator members who supported my candidacy over the years. Thanks, too, to every member — Communicator and Journalist — who suggested ideas, pointed out problems and offered encouragement.

Collaboration and collegiality between the two membership categories will forever be a work in progress, so, my fellow members, let us continue to “reach across the aisle” and work for the common good of our entire membership.

All of this may sound like a farewell. Not at all. It is simply a shift in focus. I’ve pledged to support President Alison Fitzgerald Kodjak on two initiatives near to my heart. One has the goal of enhancing diversity in its many forms at the Club. Another aims to build a sustainable mentorship program for Communicators and Journalists alike. These will not be flash in the pan projects. Rather, the goal is to set the Club on a long-term path toward growth in both areas.

I have always advocated for the fact that we are first and foremost a membership organization. Our members are paramount. Thankfully, we have a thriving business that permits us to offer valuable member benefits. But without our members, we would be reduced to just another event venue. Membership must now and always come first. I urge you, my fellow members, to bear that in mind.

I look forward to seeing you soon around our Club.