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Hail and Farewell: New Faces, Common Goals

Hail and Farewell is a traditional military event celebrating those coming to and departing from an organization. Hail and Farewell builds organizational camaraderie, a feeling of pride, fellowship, and shared goals; as well as loyalty to the organization by its members, known as “esprit de corps.” The one exception to this tradition for SRAI is that we are not saying goodbye to immediate past officers, we are saying THANK YOU as you pass the baton!

We want to take this opportunity to welcome all the new officers and thank those that are transitioning to a new role within their respective Sections and Chapters. We encourage you to reach out to individuals within your Sections and Chapters and invite them to join you in making your transition one of engagement, inclusion, and growth.

To our new officers, remember you have the experience and support of past officers from all the Sections/Chapters at your side. Shared leadership is critical to your success in your new role, so please involve those that came before you, reach out to them, ask questions, and, most importantly, establish an “esprit de corps.” You’ve heard the old saying, “it takes a village?” Remember, your village is robust with many current and past SRAI officers and members who are excited to assist you in your journey. Moreover, the talented and knowledgeable staff at SRAI Headquarters are there with you every step of the way, providing support and guidance when it is most needed.

To our members who might be considering running for office (Section, Chapter, Board), we encourage you to take that step forward. Start thinking now how you will answer the next time a call for nominations from SRAI HQ appears in your inbox. Opportunities abound; positions are many. Please, please take the time to consider throwing your hat into the ring and encourage others to do the same. The strength of SRAI lies in its entire membership.  We are always looking for new leaders, new ideas, and, most importantly, growth and inclusion. 

As SRAI continues to grow, our future growth and viability depend on an infusion of new and innovative ideas. Having spoken to many Millennials at various SRAI meetings, all have great ideas, suggestions, and afterthoughts on how they could contribute to SRAI, ways to engage more of their colleagues, etc. Likewise, many with years of experience, and even mid-career members have unique insights to bring to the table as we all respond to the ever-changing world of research administration. So, how about running for an elected position? You have time to think about it, and you should know that we are behind you 100%.

Gloria Greene, CRA, Director, Office of Sponsored Programs University of Alabama in Huntsville SRAI At-Large Board Member, Southern Section President	Charna Howson, Director, Sponsored Programs Appalachian State University SRAI Southern Section Past President