Using Past Presidents Effectively

Past chapter presidents are valuable resources that are easily used. Past presidents already have a personal connection and commitment to your chapter and to RMA. In addition, their knowledge and experience can provided needed support to your board and officers. Don't let them fade into the past!

• Consider past presidents a part of your board of directors. Include them in your chapter's officer/director listing, perhaps in a separate section.
• Invite past presidents to your board meetings and Chapter events. They may not attend on a regular basis, but can add expertise and perspective to discussions when they do attend.
• Use past presidents to coordinate a regular event such as a senior-level round table. These types of events can be ongoing and an excellent peer-sharing activity for those attending.
• Feature past presidents periodically in your newsletter in a focus article spotlighting his or her current career and/or RMA activities or in a technical article written by the past president.
• Use past presidents as consultants to solve a problem or motivate your board. They are usually happy to help and have been through it all before.