Hello Structural Science Friends!
With the start of the new year we welcome a whole new group of ACA volunteers. The ACA is so lucky to have the most amazing and dedicated members who are always eager to volunteer in some capacity. Every year, when we elect and appoint new members to Council, Committees and SIGs, I am inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by these members.
While he stepped down in 2019, I would like to take a moment and thank Bill Duax, as I am sure many of us can, for leading and inspiring us and for his dedication as the CEO of the ACA for many years. Also, Dr. Narasinga Rao has completed his tenure as CFO for the ACA. Not only has he been an incredible financial mentor to me, but he has been a steadfast financial guide to the ACA for many years. Both, Dr. Duax and Dr. Rao, have incredible histories and contributions to the structural science community, and I encourage you to look at their ACA History pages on our website (https://history.amercrystalassn.org/). Their contributions and dedication to the ACA are unmatched, and I’d like everyone to join me in wishing them well in their future endeavors!
Lisa Keefe, who after her term as ACA President took over as Interim CEO for 2020 (as the ACA transitioned to its new form) completed her tenure in 2020. Throughout her time as Vice President, President and Immediate Past President Lisa was able to guide the ACA to version 2.0. The ACA is strategically positioned for an amazing and prosperous future thanks to Lisa’s hard work and dedication.
Joe Ferrara completes his ACA presidential tenure but is continuing his commitment to the ACA, serving on the Site Selection Committee and Finance Committee. As ACA Council President and a member of council, Joe guided the ACA through numerous changes and challenges over the past three years. The ACA is now poised to thrive in the future with serious thanks to Joe’s incredible leadership.
This year we welcome Kushol Gupta and Tamir Gonen to ACA Council. Kushol was elected as ACA Council Secretary for a three-year term and Tamir is first President of the recently established US National Division. Diana Tomchick completed her second term as ACA Council Secretary in 2020 and now steps into the role of ACA Vice President for 2021.
COMMITTEES
Charlotte Stern (17-20) completed her term with the Education Committee as we welcome Allen Oliver (19-22) as the new Chair of the Committee. Jennifer Aitken (18-21) has stepped in on behalf of a member of the committee that stepped down and Karen Glass (21-24) was elected as the newest member of the committee.
The Communication Committee welcomes Steven Kelley (21-24) as its newest elected member. Brian Patrick (17-20) completes his term on the committee, and Krystle McLaughlin (18-21) is now the Chair of the committee for 2021.
The Meeting Committee welcomes the newly elected member, Anna Gardberg (21-24).
SIGs
The ACA is comprised of many Scientific Interest Groups that exemplify the dedication of our members to the society. Each year we never fail to have a committed group of members who generously donate their time and experience to run for and hold an office in a SIG. I encourage everyone to take a moment to view the updated list of SIG officers and reach out to officers and groups if you have any ideas, want to touch base or want to get involved!
If you are interested in volunteering with the ACA check out the Get Involved page for a list of different opportunities or reach out to ACA HQ.
In closing I want to thank all of our current, past, and future volunteers. Thank you to those council members, committee members and SIG officers with completed appointments in 2020 for their exceptional dedication to the ACA and welcome to those joining us in 2021. I thank you for your commitment and I look forward to a productive and prosperous 2021!
With gratitude,
Kristin H. Stevens
ACA Executive Director
