Chair’s Column
The task groups are meeting to discuss the various concerns, challenges, and recommendations expressed by the membership and to provide recommended language to the respective standing committees as we consider these items in our ongoing effort to reach consensus. Understandably, not every item will move forward at the same pace, and each item may or may not pass based on the membership vote, but each item will benefit from the collective efforts of these task groups to succeed. We are approaching each item with integrity and intent to do what is right, given the best information available. "It's the action, not the fruit of the action, that's important. You must do the right thing. It may not be in your power, may not be in your time, that there'll be any fruit. But that doesn't mean you stop doing the right thing. You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result." ~ Mahatma Gandhi While our efforts and aim are true, there are forces acting both overtly and covertly to undermine our role and authority based on politics and monied interests. As a long-time research scientist, I must advise that we not be deterred from our path of always seeking data-driven metrics to determine the model laws that we draft for national uniformity and equity in the marketplace. The process of research and data gathering for decision-making is often a slow approach to answering questions objectively in the face of biases and self-interest. Politicizing research or the gathering of data in an effort to sway results towards one’s own biases or self-interests undermines the integrity of research and leads to compromises that do not, in the long run, support valid conclusions or create sound policy. We must remain ever vigilant in pursuing our charge of “Measuring What Matters” so that “Equity May Prevail” while maintaining integrity in all that we do. I can now say that I fully understand the magnitude of fulfilling the roles of Chair Elect and Chair of NCWM. I give thanks to members of the NCWM Board of Directors for their insights, ideas, and ongoing commitment to making our organization more effective and more valuable to our members. I also convey my sincere appreciation for all the behind-the-scenes work of NCWM staff, without whom our organization would not succeed. To all the member volunteers serving on committees, subcommittees, task groups, and coordinating events at our various meeting locations, the value of your contribution is beyond measure. Thank you. It has been an honor and a privilege to be able to serve in the capacity of NCWM Chair, and it is my sincerest hope that I have served you well.
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