MAA President's Message
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January/February Message
Happy New Year! As we come off an unexpected year that had everyone learning a different way to do our jobs, as well as our lives, and start this year without much change, there is some optimism as the vaccines start being administered. As an association, we had to react to these changes in the way we presented education to our members. I would like to say a huge thank you to Beth Botke, Sandy Birkenshaw and Debra Ring. These women led our education with such dedication and passion and they were able to change the direction of our education by holding virtual classes, without hesitation. Also a thank you to John Dahlquist for handling a difficult year as president of our great association with a calm and dignity.
As we start this New Year, MAA wants to switch the direction we have been going over the years. The Board of Directors would like to do more for the membership, besides just being known for education. The association will be moving away from the monthly magazine and moving towards a more web based format. Members will be able to start finding the board minutes, STC bulletins, as well as other resources and important information on our website or through emails to our membership. Due to restrictions continuing to be in place regarding in person learning, MAA education would like to team up with smaller associations across the state to help with education. This will help give education that is beneficial to these organizations instead of just what is available.
We will also be sending out instructions for the message board that can be found on our website. This is an area where members can post questions or concerns to the board and membership, hoping to receive clarity. A board member will respond.
Lastly, for those who do not know me, I am currently the assessor for the City of Flint. I have been in the assessing field since I could hold a tape measure. I swore I never would do this for a profession, even as my mom kept telling me I would be great. I tried everything not too. I did received a Master in Public Administration from the University of Michigan since I have always had an interest in government. Moreover, after I started working in an office, independent of my mom, I found a great love for this profession and the members in it. The lesson, sometimes you should listen to your parents because they know what is best.
All my best,
Stacey Kaake, President