Research administration is built on work that is often unseen but essential. Behind every successful proposal, funded project, compliant report, and research breakthrough is a network of professionals ensuring that systems function, risks are managed, and institutions remain accountable. Yet much of this work remains invisible, even within our own organizations.
As our profession continues to evolve, the challenge is not simply to sustain what we have built, but to ensure that the work we do is fully understood, valued, and structurally supported. Too often, compliance gaps, operational challenges, and workforce struggles are attributed to individuals rather than the systems in which they operate. When infrastructure is inconsistent, expectations are unclear, or professional development pathways are limited, even highly capable professionals face unnecessary barriers to success.
The future of research administration depends on shifting how we think about the profession itself. Visibility is not simply about recognition. It is about clarity, investment, and support. It is about ensuring that research administrators have access to meaningful professional development, strong networks, effective mentorship, and the resources necessary to navigate an increasingly complex research environment.
This is one of the reasons I am seeking to serve as an At-Large Board Member. Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersection of compliance, operations, professional education, workforce development, and organizational leadership. Whether leading research administration functions at major institutions, teaching graduate students, mentoring emerging professionals, or developing educational programs, I have remained committed to strengthening both the systems that support research and the people who make those systems work.
I believe SRAI plays a critical role in that future. As the research enterprise becomes more complex, the need for professional connection, continuing education, leadership development, and community becomes even more important. SRAI has long served as a place where research administrators learn, collaborate, and grow. Our challenge is to continue evolving in ways that meet the changing needs of members across career stages, institution types, geographic regions, and areas of specialization.
If elected, I hope to contribute to conversations and initiatives that strengthen professional development, workforce sustainability, and member engagement. I believe we have an opportunity to continue expanding access to education, fostering meaningful connections among members, supporting emerging leaders, and helping institutions build stronger and more resilient research administration infrastructures.
The strength of our profession has always been rooted in the people who do this work. The future of research administration will depend on how intentionally we support, develop, and connect those professionals. By making the invisible visible and investing in the people behind the work, we can help ensure that both SRAI and the profession continue to thrive for years to come.