IAAP – Municipal Employees Chapter

 What lies behinds us,

And what lies before us

Are tiny matters

compared to

what lies within us.

                                                                               Emerson

A very special friend gave me this poem when I began my journey on the Georgia Division Board and I keep it on my desk at work. Every time I read it I am reminded of our Chapter. We have always been fairly small in numbers, but mighty in strength.  In January we will celebrate our 14^th anniversary and I think it is amazing that we continue to be a close knit group of professionals dedicated to giving 100% to whatever task we undertake. Whether it’s a community project, proctoring an exam, hosting Student Conference or Annual meeting, or honoring our bosses at a luncheon, our Chapter has always been successful because of “what lies within us”; dedicated, caring, members.

The members of our chapter definitely display Excellence in Action by their unselfish giving to others. I was so proud to see our members in action on November 7^th and 8^th when we proctored the CPS and CAP exams. Many members were at the test site before 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning making sure the candidates had hot coffee and something to eat before the first test. Other members prepared and served a hot lunch, and throughout the day members dropped by to offer words of encouragement.  Because of the Municipal Employees Chapter those sitting for the exams were able to relax, laugh, and enjoy good food and fellowship between the tests. Thank you to each member who played a part in making this possible!

As I look back over the last 14 years, I remember the obstacles we overcame to establish this chapter and the successes we have enjoyed. No one knows what lies before us, but I am confident that “what lies within us” will enable our chapter to continue being successful!