National Catholic Forester

National Catholic Forester 4 WELCOME For the next nine to twelve months, the consistent message to our members will be: "Watch your mail!" "Check out our NCSF website!" "Take a look at the NCSF Facebook page!" The Society has important information to share with members as we begin a new process for our election of leadership and also have a new focus for our quadrennial convention. The delegates from the 2014 convention approved a revision of the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws which was developed in order to modernize the governance of NCSF. This brings us into the 21st century and assures that the Society meets the expectations of state regulators and examiners. The revised Bylaws, which have been approved and filed with the State of Illinois, are included in this magazine on pages 25-31. Changes that may be of particular interest to the members include: • The Board is the governing body for the Society. In the past, the convention delegates were the decision-makers. This model no longer works well because business needs change much more quickly than on a four-year convention cycle. A Board of individuals with a high level of business knowledge can adjust in a professional way as needs arise. • Every adult member gets to participate in the election of the Board. By having direct elections, all beneficial members of voting age will have a "voice and vote" in determining the leadership of the Society. In early 2018, members will be provided with information on the candidates and will be instructed as to the method for voting. Voting is expected to take place in late spring; the new Board will then be installed at the July 2018 Member Assembly. • Board members with special duties. As stated in the Bylaws, the newly elected Board will choose someone from their group to be responsible for special duties as Secretary, Treasurer and Chair of the Board. • New focus for the Convention (Member Assembly). The purpose of the convention will shift away from election of officers and directors. Instead the Member Assembly will focus on education, enrichment, and growth of the fraternal side. MARGARET "PEGGY" SCHMITT NATIONAL PRESIDENT National President's Message Dear Members of the National Catholic Society of Foresters, Do you have skills that would benefit the Society and would enhance the governance responsibilities of the Board? Member Assembly 2018 Thursday through Saturday: July 26, 27, 28 Eaglewood Resort and Spa Located northwest of Chicago in Itasca, Illinois PLEASE NOTE: Dates have changed!

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