Having just returned from NAEYC in Dallas and having experienced a wonderful TAEYC conference in Nashville, I feel energized and excited about the work of our organization.  There is much to be done as we strive for better opportunities for Tennessee’s children.

There are many exceptional leaders in our organization and our work could not be done without them.  We are especially grateful for the leadership of Debbie Ferguson and Candyee Goode who guided our annual conference so capably. We also are fortunate to have leaders who can step in when needed. One such is Kathy Ennis who assisted the conference chairs when Debbie’s father became ill.

At conference we recognized some special people. Two notable awards were given to Barbara Wall (TAEYC Service Award) and Jan King (Outstanding Member Award). Both women have served TAEYC for many years and in many roles. We applaud them.

We have just elected some new officers. Debbie Ferguson has been elected as President-elect and will serve as President beginning in January 2010. Sara Longhini is our new Treasurer-elect and will serve on the board along with Lin Venable (NAEYC Representative-elect), Lisa Maddox-Vinson (SECA Representative-elect), and Brenda Langston (Nominating Chair East). Congratulations to all!

Congratulations also to Nashville AAEYC! This affiliate recently celebrated its 60th birthday with a reception honoring their past presidents and became the 8th largest local affiliate in the NAEYC organization. With over 900 members, they are a strong and dedicated group.

A word of thanks goes to Lori DuBois, our Office Manager, who tirelessly advocates for our organization. Many of our accomplishments are made possible by her dedication.

As we close out 2008 and look forward to 2009, let us do so with a purpose that will further enhance the lives of all our children. Come on and join us in this very important endeavor.

Rose Carver