My theme for this year is Let Us Recognize You!  I look forward to selecting a participant at each meeting whom we can recognize for how they are personally contributing to their employer’s or business’s (if self-employed) success.  

Speaking of recognition, we finished the year with 188 members – the same number as in 2008.  Our members continue to renew their membership because they see the value in the robust programs and opportunities for networking and mentoring.  During the past two challenging years, many companies have cut budgets related to developing their employees.  Training and development professionals in middle Tennessee look to ASTD-TN to provide personal development via chapter meetings, special interest groups (organizational development for example) and formal networking events.  

And we are GROWING!!!  We passed the 200-member mark in January.  I know I personally benefit from the programs ASTD-TN offers.  Some of my personal examples are:  Last year ASTD member George Campbell of the Dave Ramsey Organization provided a program on Financial Peace in the Workplace.  As of December, my employer now offers this program to our employees.  In December, Comdata demonstrated how they use Game Show Pro software to put fun in the workplace and improve employee morale.  As of this month, my company has purchased Game Show Pro to use in sales training classes. 

At our board strategic planning meeting we updated our Mission and Vision to better fit where we’re headed.  Glad you’re along for the ride! 

ASTD Middle Tennessee Chapter’s Mission and Vision

Mission:  To provide opportunities to learn, connect and grow.

Vision:  To be the leading organization of Middle Tennessee workplace learning and performance professionals.  

ASTD National’s Mission and Vision

Mission:  Through exceptional learning and performance, we create a world that works better.

Vision:To be a world-wide leader in workplace learning and performance.