Standing on the Threshold
August 30, 2009
Outbound Chapter President Brandy Little Reflects on the Past Year
The 2008-2009 term closes today, and it is time for me to pass the baton to the capable hands of the next SMPS/LA Chapter President, Randy Paulson of Walker Parking Consultants. It is a bittersweet moment because I have truly enjoyed the opportunity to serve and have a hand in our chapter's accomplishments. And what a kickin' year we had - let me tell you!
DELIVERED
When you told us that you wanted to see more clients, we brought them to you. Our programs featured a three-fold increase in the number of client appearances, which led to a 20% increase in attendance this past term!
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES
We launched the first in a series of webinar sessions that represent the start of a new low-cost programming option to meet our audience's needs. Thanks to Leo A. Daly for hosting these events!
PRC
For the real movers & shakers in the know, PRC (Pacific Regional Conference) is already on their calendars. This must-attend event will bring together the Hawaii, Los Angeles, Orange County, Oregon, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco chapters for the first-ever regional networking and educational event. The event takes place on March 25-26, 2010 in Sacramento - be there or be square!
HOT OFF THE PRESSES
We have strategically grown our Chapter Resource Library to include newly-published industry reads such as the latest edition of the "Marketing Handbook" and SMPS Foundation's "2009 Salary Survey." The library is available to all members in good standing who can check out books and materials for no charge.
MAKE-OVER SUCCESS
A complete over-haul was devised for our Mentorship Program and the new concept was introduced at our May 2009 seminar. The program will officially kick off this fall, so interested participants should watch their mailboxes for further details!
RAISING THE BAR
Congratulations to Juanita Martinez of SWA Architects, Teena Videriksen of Arup and Brandy Little of S&K Engineers who earned the Certified Professional Services Marketers (CPSM) designation and joined a growing class of individuals who have demonstrated a professional commitment to life-long learning and to building a firm's business.
NOT SO STICKY SAP
For the first time in our chapter's history, a panel of seasoned marketers and business developers with more than 12 years experience under their belts was assembled to provide strategic counsel to the Board and help increase participation of senior level members. This group was known affectionately as the "SAP," which is short for Senior Advisory Panel.
MIXOLOGY
The introduction of this monthly networking night provided a low-key avenue for colleagues to share some much needed down time and mix it up with their friends new and old. Mixology will return this fall - stay tuned for new location details!
PLUGGED IN
New member orientation sessions were increased 600% to more effectively capture their enthusiasm in the early stages. Hosted by Ford Graphics in their downtown location, new members get plugged in and educated on making the most of their membership investment. The new program has met with enthusiasm and abundant praise!
CENTER STAGE
The introduction of a graphic banner that is displayed center stage at monthly events provides outstanding recognition for our annual sponsors and led to a 500% increase in sponsoring firms!
GIVING BACK
At the 2008 holiday bash, a cash donation (collected from speaker donations and silent auction collection) was presented to Habitat for Humanity. Meanwhile, party-goers cast their votes and selected the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank as the 2009 Charity of the Year.
CELEBRATING BEST PRACTICES
The 2009 SMPS/LA Marketing Communications Awards (MCA) Program expanded to seven entry categories and offered participants an opportunity to garner free publicity and benchmark the effectiveness of their marketing communications.
SOLD OUT!
The 27th Annual Leonardo Awards Program on June 11, 2009 was a huge success. With honorees Kaiser Permanente and the Los Angeles Community College District in attendance, the event was a total sell out! The evening also recognized the 2009 Leonardo Award recipient Paula Stamp, CPSM of PCL Construction Services for her professional leadership within SMPS and beyond; her investment in the continuing education of herself and those around her; and her generous acts of philanthropy in the surrounding community.
KUDOS
The following individuals have earned kudos and recognition:
- Model Citizen - Donna Prescott of Acentech
Most actively engaged member - Frequent Flyer - Morley Builders
Most generous and frequent sponsor - Rising Star - Nicole Kerr
Committee volunteer who has shown exceptional dedication and potential - ABCD Award - Jennifer Vasquez
Board member who went above and beyond the call of duty
