Finding Value is Not Just Financially Based
The phrase "stretch every dollar" focuses on making the most out of your money by being conscious of spending and seeking ways to save. This includes budgeting, reducing unnecessary expenses, and taking advantage of deals or discounts. At its core, it's about extending the value of your finances to achieve goals without sacrificing too much comfort. However, have you ever reflected deeply on the value that each dollar brings beyond just its monetary worth?
Value isn't limited to economic terms; it also encompasses elements like social impact, environmental concerns, and personal experiences that enhance overall well-being for individuals or communities. Organizations like SRAI understand the significance of non-financial assets, such as intellectual property or the contributions of dedicated volunteers. These intangible assets play a pivotal role in reinforcing the purpose and perceived value of SRAI.
The strength of SRAI’s membership stems from the unique sense of intrinsic value it offers, something unmatched by other societies. While intrinsic value in ethical and philosophical discussions denotes the inherent worth of something irrespective of its outcomes, SRAI transforms this into a shared sense of purpose and happiness for its members. Happiness arises from collectively advancing the mission within the professional field of research administration, where members serve as foundational support, regulatory authorities, and guiding leaders for their institutions and principal investigators (PIs).
Through offerings like in-person meetings, webinars, Training Intensives, and publications, SRAI delivers a sense of belonging and worth that fosters both individual fulfillment and long-term membership loyalty. This personal and emotional value felt by members often fuels positive ripple effects among colleagues, direct reports, and PIs, strengthening relationships within the research administration community. It also motivates members to actively volunteer across various committees, showcasing their pride in such value to others.
By offering what can be described as "value-based investing," SRAI continually generates returns beyond finances—fulfilling intellectual needs, fostering emotional connections through friendships built at events, and creating a supportive network where members celebrate successes or navigate challenges together. While financial value is undeniably important, true value extends well beyond numbers to embrace emotional, social, environmental, and intrinsic dimensions.
For SRAI to sustain this holistic value over time, strong financial leadership is essential. Effective financial stewardship ensures that funds are managed responsibly and strategically deployed to guarantee the organization’s longevity as a source of emotional connectivity, friendship, intellectual collaboration, and professional support in research administration. If entrusted with the role of Treasurer for SRAI, I will dedicate myself to maintaining fiscal accountability while upholding the values that make our society thrive. Every financial decision will reflect our collective mission to support one another, ensuring that SRAI continues to inspire its members for years to come.
Authored By:
Jason Claes
Senior Associate
Huron Consulting Group