Members of the senate gathered in Anaheim, California for the Annual Winter Senate Meeting on Saturday, February 2, 2019. This was the second of two senate face-to-face meetings in FY19. There were very lively discussions throughout the day. In addition, the meeting had a special two month old guest who accompanied her mother. The meeting was truly inclusive and diverse.
Peter Finn, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Learning Officer of SWE, facilitated a strategic planning training session. The senate is the strategic body of the Society, and this training helped continue to sharpen the skill set and prepare the mind for a day of big picture thinking. Peter is a very effective presenter and appreciated for his efforts.
Discussion items included motion S-1903 to approve the strategic planning metrics dashboard. The metrics dashboard was developed by the Strategic Planning Sub-Team based on input from SWE leadership, members, staff, and McKinley Advisors. It will be used to review progress towards the Society’s long-term strategic plans as well as to develop future strategic plans. After reviewing the motion documentation and addressing concerns prior to the meeting, the senate passed the motion unanimously. There were no proposed bylaws amendments up for discussion during this senate meeting.
During special reports, the senate received updates and participated in key dialogue. Karen Horting, Executive Director and CEO of SWE, provided an HQ update including the upcoming WE19 Annual Conference in Anaheim, California in November 2019. Karen Roth, Society Treasurer, presented a finance update. The senate sub-teams discussed their respective efforts and potential research on strategic initiatives.
The meeting wrapped up with an interactive SWOT analysis exercise. The high-level dialogue was impressive and encouraged to continue in subsequent senate meetings.