Sara Serves: Summer Conference and Farewell
Our summer conference is right around the corner, and I hope to see you there. Twice a year, the conference committee, conference co-chairs, Third Vice President, and the inestimable Alysse Dowdy work together to create a program that informs, challenges, and connects us. If you're looking for a way to become more involved in the Association, the Professional Development Committee is a great start. We love volunteers!
Serving as President of this organization has been both a joy and a whirlwind. Past presidents warned me that the year would fly by, and they were absolutely right.
As I look back, my favorite moments weren't accomplishments or initiatives. They were people.
So, cue the music, here are my top 3 items from this year. I don’t have a top ten. We just got through budget season. Three felt like an accomplishment.
The best part of writing this column wasn't writing it. It was hearing from you. Thank you for the emails, notes, and conversations that followed. Knowing something made you laugh, think, or simply brightened your day made the effort worthwhile.
The partnership with Fairfax County Workforce Development and Virginia Tech to support displaced federal workers was one of the most rewarding efforts I've been privileged to be part of. Working alongside such dedicated public servants reminded me why local government remains one of the noblest professions there is.
Attending the Retired Managers Luncheon was simply the best. Spending time with those who helped shape our profession was both humbling and inspiring. The group was welcoming, generous, and full of stories. Seeing Lane Ramsey and Pete Stith, my first County Administrator and Deputy County Administrator in Chesterfield, felt like a homecoming and a full-circle moment.
Thank you for allowing me to serve. Like our work in local government, it has been both a responsibility and a privilege.
And if I can ever be of service, you'll find me in Amherst, living my best small-town life, gently reminding people that the Charter says what the Charter says.
Sara
Welcome to our new members:
Ashley Pillar, Deputy County Administrator/Finance Director County of Amelia
Taryn Tuttle, Student Intern, Town of Herndon