March/April, 2009 President's Report |
| Posted by Rhonda Messamore (rmessamore) on Mar 19 2009 |
Passing the Baton
By: Jose "Joe" Aragon, III, CADC II, ICADC, SAP
On Saturday January 24th, I was honored to be seated as your current CAADAC President. The event was one that created a variety of emotions for me. Foremost were anticipatory anxiety and excitement during the passing of the “presidential baton” from Immediate Past-President, Bob Tyler. My confidence level arose as business continued on during the weekend as usual, with support from the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. I quickly realized the great responsibility of leading our elite association, which includes nearly 4,000 members. I reflected back to an election in which I submitted my name for nomination as Region 1 North Director soon after passing my written exam some years ago. I had a great sense of zealousness and passion to get involved politically. I was encouraged by my wife, colleagues, and late mentor, Gene Hughes. Needless to say, I was defeated by a “veteran” of our profession, Ron Israel. Ron is someone who I have grown to respect and appreciate as a long-time member. Defeat is a part of any race, political or athletic. My decision to allow the loss to be a teachable moment has proven to be of great value.
I also recognize that a leader is only as good as his supporting “cast”. I am very fortunate to be part of a team of professionals who value integrity, character, and professionalism. We have great balance within the current leadership of CAADAC which include experience, wisdom, and fresh vision. The current mentoring system in place at the Executive Committee level is one that has proven to be effective. In contrast, when the members of a team appear to be out of sync, this can produce confusion and sometimes failure. An example of this was during the Beijing Olympics last year.
Among the other millions of viewers, I eagerly watched on my 57-inch HDTV the 2008 USA track and field teams in the Beijing Olympics. Much to my surprise, I witnessed both the USA men’s and USA women’s 4 X 100 meter relay teams drop the baton in the preliminary heats. This undoubtedly cost the USA the gold medal in these events. The teams have obviously, visibly, and with disgrace, have failed to work on the most crucial aspects of any relay event in track and field: the crucial timing, number of predetermined steps to space out between oncoming runners and the handoff. How can these most basic and vital aspects of a successful relay event, be OVERLOOKED? Many would have the opinion that full responsibility fell on the coaching staff. Others would lean to holding the athletes themselves solely responsible. Either way, the catastrophic result was the same---dropped batons in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
I felt extremely sad for our athletes, their fans and our country while I watched the performance. I had the butterflies partly due to being a former runner and hurdler in high school and in community college. I reflected back to the drills our coaches would require us to complete on a daily basis.
The discipline and conditioning required to perform at an optimal level was met with resistance and apathy by many which was a contributing factor as to why only a few reaped great rewards, including growth. Regret of not taking advantage of the doors of opportunity during my track years was always common while viewing others during such competitions. I would imagine that we all have thought and said the “would-of’s” “should-of’s”, and “could-of’s”. Sometimes you only get one shot. Remember, your attitude will always determine your altitude in life.
One thing I am sure of today is that I have been chosen to lead our “cutting-edge” organization over the next 2 years with the help of our well-regarded Executive Director, Rhonda Messamore, the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors. Pay close attention to legislative updates, your regional workshops, new upcoming membership benefits, and more, as we journey through a new and exciting year. Put your seatbelts on CAADAC members, you’re in for a memorable ride!!!
In Service,
Joe Aragon, CADC II, ICADC, SAP
President
Last changed: Mar 19 2009 at 10:49 PM
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