Most Outstanding Chapter Award! PDF Print E-mail
Written by INCOSE-LA   
It is with great pride that I announce that INCOSE-LA was presented with the President’s Award as the “Most Outstanding Chapter” for 2008 at the International Symposium, IS09, in Singapore. Jonette Stecklein, INCOSE Member Board Chairwoman, cited the following reasons for the choice of our Chapter: “Along with a high point total and consistent Gold-Level performance since 2004, the Los Angeles Chapter demonstrated a strong and balanced performance across six of the seven categories. In addition, the Los Angeles Chapter is recognized for effective sharing of meeting speakers through web conferencing and effective use of other chapters’ expertise.” Her words serve to emphasize that this tribute came not only as a result of a successful year in 2008 under the leadership of David Boyd, but also in recognition of the hard work by the many dedicated individuals who have contributed their time and expertise over the past few years.

In representing INCOSE-LA in accepting both this award and another plaque for attaining another Gold Chapter Circle Award, I was asked to present to all the other regions a series of charts that illustrate the strengths of our Chapter and how we can be used as a model for other aspiring chapters. Assembled by David Boyd, Beth O’Donnell, and me, this presentation stressed the need to actively engage and create value for members and to ensure that the Chapter continues to challenge itself to respond to new needs and ideas. A key element was our extended Board of Directors to include those appointed positions that not only provide valuable services, but also serve as stepping-stones to elected positions. Many representatives from other chapters around the world were quite impressed with the range of activities in which we engage, and many were taken by surprise at one of our key strengths evident in the charts — the diversity of our membership.
Among the charts I was most proud of was the photo showing the past six INCOSE-LA presidents at the recent 2009 INCOSE-LA Mini-Conference. In a sense, those pictured (John Hsu, Dennis Schwarz, Gina Kostelecky-Shankle, Jim Manson, David Boyd, and me) can all take satisfaction in the recognition represented by this award. As mentioned in the closing of the presentation, however, the Chapter leaders are also well aware that we are continually faced with challenges and opportunities, so we shall not rest on our laurels as we seek to build upon our recent success.
Last Updated ( Monday, 07 September 2009 12:06 )