Well, it’s been an interesting year.

In July of 2019, I felt so prepared stepping into my role as Governor for District 3. Each leadership role I’ve held with the AAF has taught me that no matter what, you ALWAYS need to have a plan B. Well folks, it’s safe to say plans A-Z still would not have prepared us for this.

At the start of the year, our District went forward with a clear message: “Work Smarter. Not Harder.” We emphasized that clubs needed to learn to grow and develop with their ever-changing membership. What worked for our clubs a decade ago, might not work today. Club leaders needed to take the time to reflect on how to make the best changes to offer the most to our members. We needed to work smarter.

Our club and district leaders rose to the challenge but none of us could have imagined that half-way through our year, our entire world would be turned upside down. But instead of use the time to take a break, club leaders quickly tried to adjust what they had to offer… virtually.

This upcoming year is about to begin in a way no year has started before. And now we tackle a new question: “How do we evolve and adapt to what 2020 looks like now?” That’s why District 3 is stepping up to help our clubs answer that question.

Our annual District 3 Leadership Conference will still be scheduled for August but this year, like everything else, we’re going virtual. We will help our clubs adjust their membership structures, budget for a virtual year and figure out what this means for their biggest events, like the American Advertising Awards.

My year as Governor had no shortage of curveballs, but I am a stronger leader because of it. And this District is certainly stronger because of it. We had so much to celebrate this year, like the AAF of the Midlands (Columbia, SC) winning National Club of the Year for the fifth time in the club’s history. And celebrating our Chair, Megan Telencio, rolling off after 10 amazing years of service to the AAF. It was extremely bittersweet watching Salute to Achievers but not being able to celebrate in person at ADMERICA with the District 3 family.

One thing though is for certain: District 3 is in good hands. After numerous conversations with multiple District leaders, I can promise you they’re ready for the year ahead, whatever that may be. And Tiffany Andrews (AAF Coastal Carolinas) will lead our District through it all, because we’re strong and we’ve produced strong leaders. That’s why no matter what happens, District 3 will always be “Small but Mighty.”

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who served on the District 3 board this year and to all club leadership. You’ve made what should have been an extremely difficult year, my best, most memorable to-date. I can’t wait to see what you do next.

Sincerely,
Danielle Salley
AAF District 3 Governor
2019-2020