President's Message: 2020: A Vision for the Future of MCFM

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:
2020: A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF MCFM

by Vicki L. Shemin, J.D., LICSW, ACSW

As the 24th President of MCFM, it is a formidable task to pen a President’s message. In thinking about all that I would like to convey, I was struck by the fact that my presidency will span the years 2018-2020. 
2020.

The irony of 2020 did not escape me. The familiar maxim that “hindsight is 20-20” is commonly understood to mean that we don’t always see clearly in the moment and that we only gain a perfect view of events after they have transpired - - that is, we are better able to evaluate past choices in retrospect rather than at the time of the occurrence.

But what if one had the benefit of an amazing Board of Directors who brings a perfect equipoise of past experience and fresh insights? And, what if one had the benefit of energetic and creative Members who bring synergy and creativity to this incredible organization? Wouldn’t that propel us to turn the aphorism on its head - - meaning, with the 20-20 ability to evaluate, strategize and implement changes ahead of the curve, we could have the foresight to carve out a path towards an even prouder legacy?

For those who know me, there is a standing joke that I tend to say in 15 words what others convey in 5. In my effort to be contemporaneously focused with my sights set both on past lessons and future challenges, I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to help advance the aims of an organization with a proud and storied history. 

It is my hope that when I write my Past-President’s Message, you will recognize positive changes that future leaders of the organization will build upon with their own insights and energies.

So, between now and 2020, it is my fervent hope that I can count on you to make the most of your membership by challenging us with your energy and ideas, all to the end that we will ever strive and actualize our organizational ideals. Practically speaking, what does this mean? Give us constructive critiques, give us your wish list, join an established committee (or present us with the idea for a new committee), join in and take advantage of all that we have to offer you...and let us take full measure of all that you can offer MCFM.

I look forward to partnering with you as we look ahead to, and reflect back upon, 2020.