1. Definition of a Student Associate Member:
Serving as administrative chair for the membership committee the last two years has given me great insight as to who are members are as well as who our potential members are. Our committee proposed this change in the definition for student membership with the knowledge that we have many individuals attaining an accounting and tax education part time, while working full time in another field. It is becoming more and more common for people to seek out another career while still maintaining and supporting themselves and their families. I am in complete favor of this amendment as I believe it gives us the opportunity to expand our membership and reach more individuals who can benefit from our organization.
2. Clarification of State Director duties:
While this appears to be mostly a housekeeping proposal, I believe it is very important and I am in full favor of this amendment. Our state directors work hard for NSA, and have varying duties and responsibilities. This clarifies the important duties our state directors follow as set forth by governance, and reinforces the important role of the Office of State Director.
3. Definition of a Retired Member:
Again, this proposal was brought to the board from the membership committee. We felt that with the drastic change in our industry of Registering Tax Return Preparers, that we may see more of our members than usual retire in the next few years. I am in full support of this amendment as it keeps all retired members engaged with NSA, regardless of their years of membership and age.
4. Change to the voting procedures:
I believe wholeheartedly in the concept that every member has a voice and a right to participate in the process of electing leadership as well as having input in the direction and vision of our organization. In our recent member needs assessment survey, we know that we have a much higher percentage of members that want the opportunity to vote than the 2-3% that currently attend the annual meetings. It's time for change to allow every member the right to vote. As I have stated, the last couple of years I have had the privilege of serving in the membership arena, and have gained a better understanding and knowledge of who our member is. We have roughly 10,400 members and of those members, a very small percentage have an opportunity to vote. NSA is a non-profit organization and with that comes the responsibility and duty to serve the profession and the public. I believe a part of that is giving the opportunity to our members to get educated about our organizational issues, have access to getting to know candidates running for office, and to have a vote.
This will be a big change in the governance of NSA and there will be much process and procedure to be developed. I trust our elected board to develop the necessary structure and avenues that will enable this change in our By-Laws to be nothing but successful. We must look to the future, believe in our membership, trust our leaders, and expand our vision to listen to every member.
I look forward to the By-Law Committee comments and recommendations as they get feedback from the general membership.