ACSM Bulletin | December 2011 | #254
Our Expanding World
The world is expanding. That's not a scientific observation, and neither is it fashionable. Big discoveries have made the world smaller—there is no doubt about it. Still, our world is getting bigger because of the knowledge that led to the big discoveries and life-changing technology. With new technology come disruptions and changes. We in the ACSM community are in the midst of one such major change. Our leaders are working to expand our sphere of professional interest and influence. Are we ready? Restructuring a professional association is not for the faint-hearted. Often, a complete refocusing of the organization may be needed, starting with the governance model and ending with building a robust technology framework. Between those visible pillars of change are other intricate changes that need to happen in order to "energize and reposition" a professional organization for the future. First among them is the need to rigorously define the member market; who is it that we want to attract into our ranks. This begs the question, Why would they want to join us?—and the answer almost certainly lies in the choices we make in the programs and services we decide to offer to attract new members. Finally—and this often gets put on the back burner in smaller, less affluent associations—comes empowering staff to build expertise and help members expand their professional and private lives with knowledge and new opportunities. Some of these aspects of ACSM's reorganization are well on the way, others are still waiting to be undertaken. As 2011 slowly winds down, I hope for a world that will expand for our association—with new ideas, new people, new energy, new places. Watch this space! The Bulletin will be there to take you through all of this. Happy New Year!