My name is Anthony Edmondson, and I am seeking the position of SRAI At-Large Board Member to serve as your liaison, dedicated to advancing our society’s purpose as outlined in SRAI Bylaws, Article II: The education of research administration professionals and the enhancement of communication among all stakeholders. Over the past four years, I have attended open sessions of the Annual Board of Directors Meetings in San Antonio, Chicago, and Seattle to gain a deeper understanding of SRAI operations. Through this experience, I observed the strategic planning and decision-making conducted on behalf of SRAI members. The Board of Directors actively works to fulfill our society's vision and mission while upholding a strong code of ethics and professional conduct. The SRAI Board of Directors is most effective when members, both you and I, actively participate. This participation encompasses voting in SRAI elections, attending virtual and onsite meetings and professional development opportunities, responding to SRAI surveys, and sharing knowledge or raising questions on SRAI Connect Communities. Regardless of whether you choose another qualified candidate or me as your representative, your engagement as an SRAI member is essential to the continued growth of the research administration profession. The proverbs “A closed mouth doesn’t get fed” and “A squeaky wheel gets the oil” illustrate the importance.
SRAI’s vision is “To lead a connected world of research administrators driving excellence, collaboration, and discovery across borders and disciplines.” The mission is “To empower research administrators globally with the knowledge, resources, and community they need to excel, collaborate, and drive impactful research.” As a mid-level manager in Research Administration, I believe I can offer a unique perspective in representing the membership. In my role as a Research Program Administrator within Department Administration, I interact daily with individuals across my institution’s organizational structure, which enables me to understand the diverse roles and challenges faced by colleagues. Whether working with Center Directors, Principal Investigators, Vice Presidents, Compliance Officers, Sponsored Programs, Contracts and Grants Accounting, Research Security, Human Resources, Procurement, or Student Researchers, I consistently apply situational awareness to listen, empathize, verify information, and develop effective solutions. I would bring these same skills to the Board. Currently, I serve as the SRAI Southern Section Immediate Past President and as an Ambassador at The University of Alabama in Huntsville. My previous SRAI roles include Section Secretary/Interim-Treasurer and Chapter Treasurer. I transitioned into Research Administration at The University of Texas in 2007, following experience with the Secretary of the United States Air Force Public Affairs division, and as an Accountant in both the public and private sectors. I have been an SRAI member since 2011. I envision SRAI fostering greater global engagement among members, emphasizing collaborative leadership, professional development, inclusive volunteer opportunities accessible to all, and a welcoming environment for both new and longstanding members. These qualities initially attracted me to SRAI and have deepened my commitment to the organization. I see SRAI as a community that inspires and mentors the next generation of Research Administrators.
My involvement with SRAI has significantly contributed to my personal and professional development and has enabled me to build a global network of lifelong colleagues and friends. I would consider it a great honor to represent your ideas and concerns to the SRAI Board.