Thank you for electing me as President of MI-SGMP for the next few years. Here are the 2008-09 goals of the Michigan Chapter of SGMP.

Membership

• Increase public relations and information communication to membership
• Increase planner membership to maintain a 50:50 ratio.
• Achieve a retention rate of 90%
• Maintain an attendance at monthly meetings at a planner to supplier ratio of 45:55
• Track attendance membership patterns and analyze for trends

Communication

• Write and email monthly "e-blasts" to the members on issues such as new/renewing members, special events, pictures, new board information and minutes, and committee reports
• Increase visibility of the chapter

Financial

• Enhance financial management operations
• Maintain a balanced budget
• Increase annual fundraising revenue by 5% over the 2007/2008 budget.

Board

• Establish/maintain a committee to contribute to a local community service project

The Board will continually monitor these goals and we hope you will help us achieve them.

The Board looks forward to offering educational and informative opportunities to enhance your professional experience. Mark your calendar for the third Wednesday of each month for these programs. New this year, we are offering a special: pay for five meetings and get the sixth FREE!!! Keep an eye on the Michigan SGMP Web site at www.misgmp.org for more information.

Your Board of Directors is committed to providing programs that will enhance you as a meeting professional and keep you updated on challenging issues you may face in the meeting industry. We will help you find creative ways to save money, deliver valued programs including using technology, and will keep you savvy in demonstrating your expertise to your organization.

Committee assignments were made at the last meeting. We want your voice on these committees and in order to take the association onward and upward, we need your support. To the left is a list of the committees and board assignments, contact one of the board members today to express your interest. Get involved today!!!

The Board and I are excited about the next few years for SGMP. As always, if you have comments, suggests, or questions, please contact myself or another board member. Thanks again for this opportunity.

Your President,

Debbie Kopkau, CMP