April Musings

Hard to believe but the month is half over. I received my Bulletin today; the ballot materials will follow in a day or two. I've written another statement that I will attach below - this statement addresses some concerns people have over our recently approved budget and how the strategic plan will work for us...going forward.

I am pleased that the blast email got out; it went to any member who was not an officer. I hope it encourages members to vote no matter what their choices are. I did get a couple of positive responses already. Wonder how many I will get over all??

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What Mensa Needs Now by Elissa Rudolph, candidate for chairman

A chairman of an organization is a leader, a team builder, a champion of the individual members whose voices need to be heard. My philosophy for Mensa is on the back of my business card – it is that uncomplicated: encourage an environment where all feel at home with other curious individuals. The society we joined to find camaraderie in whatever form needs a chairman who can focus on the big picture, while listening and then listening some more.

It is a tough economic time; no one knows when it will get better. Yet I believe that Mensa is prepared for any eventuality. We passed a budget recently that is conservative and cautious. I have been part of the Finance Committee for three years and have seen the planning and considered thought that has developed our current secure financial picture. There are no guarantees, but I believe that our future is safe.

We now have a strategic plan, something that past boards did not have to help them focus on a clear direction. Mensa is poised grow even stronger with this plan in place, an initiative that I have encouraged since day one. The key word now is progress, not process. What do we want to do, not how do we get there. Part of the strategic plan is to look at the structure and retool, redesign as necessary.

It’s up to you, the members, to choose your candidates carefully. I ask you for your support now in this election. Link arms with me so we can make Mensa even better for us all. I am a proven team builder since my first gathering in 1980 until chairing the World Gathering in 2006. And yes, I am a cheerleader, with an emphasis on the latter part of the word – leader. I would be honored to serve as your leader.

Whatever your choice, please vote!
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Have a wonderful rest of April!