National Catholic Forester

Fall 2018 — www.ncsf.com 7 DAY TWO MORNING each morning, early risers had an opportunity to pray the rosary led by Deacon Larry Schmi . A er a delicious and warming breakfast, it was me to get to work. As a endees took their seats, they were greeted by a gallery of pictures showing an historical view of the Society and the good works of the courts. The morning sessions included informa on presented by NCSF's CEO, Lisa Bickus. Lisa introduced the Home Office staff and then presented "Highlights of the Last Four Years," which included descrip ons of the changes to the Society's Bylaws, board policies, and governance. She also reviewed organiza onal changes within the Board and the Home Office. Lisa then shared the updated and simplified Court Guidelines as well as the important business partnerships necessary to assure professional excellence for NCSF. Members heard about developments on the business side: the new dynamic NCSF website which has a focus on products and services. The new website includes interac ve FAQs and hyperlinks. The Na onal Catholic Forester magazine also underwent a transforma on with a new structure, look, and feel. It now includes important financial informa on and ar cles wri en by accountants and lawyers. Social media has also become an important and integral part of our communica on. On the membership side, NCSF has added new benefits for members to enjoy. The Outreach and Engagement department (O&E) has started making visits to courts and is helping them plan important membership drives, as well as building a network of professionals that can assist Catholics families – the Catholic advisor Network. The recipients of the "Members of the Year" awards were recognized – the members and guests applauded them for their outstanding contribu ons. Beau ful sparkling awards were presented to the outgoing Board of Directors in recogni on of their hard work over the last several years. Above: Lisa Bickus, CEO presented "Highlights of the Last Four Years." At RIGHt: A endees at table selec ng ribbons for their name tags. Above: NCSf members and a endees. BELOW: the Outgoing Board of Directors received awards in recogni on of their hard work. CoNtiNueD oN page 8

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