It is my honor as incoming President to introduce the Spring issue of our beautiful magazine, designed and created by Stephanie Millner, Shawna Hinkel, and their talented committee. I always look forward to turning its glossy pages, reading the articles, and catching up on what is going on with ASP.

Our new year begins in March as we have a changing of the guard. I want to thank John Herrel for his wisdom and guidance as Chairman of the Board. Although he rolls off the board, he has graciously agreed to serve as a Superchair this year, continuing to lead us with the integration of our new website and CRM system. Our 2025-2026 President, John Powers, has exemplified quiet strength, generosity, thoughtfulness, and vision. His leadership has been exemplary, and I look forward to his guidance as Chairman of the Board.

While March is already upon us, I am still reeling from our exciting week at Imaging USA. John Powers claims that our trade show booth is the heartbeat of ASP at IUSA, and he is correct. Each day was filled with exciting speakers. New members stopped by to receive their boas and take pictures with the poster. We even had non-members eager to learn more about joining ASP. We wish them well on their journey and are looking forward to the time that they can receive their boas as well!

Our 80th Gala was stunning! Jessica Vallia and Karen McCall, under the guidance of Sharon Lobel-Oberto, created a magical scene with the glow of lanterns and celebration of our International status. The evening was filled with excitement as we presented the ASP International Award to Joe McNally, the Honorary Educational Associate Degree to Dwight Okumoto, the Honorary Fellowship and Life Membership to Jon Allyn, Honorary Life Membership to John Powers, the PPA National Award to Dennis Craft, and the Robert D. Golding Award to Dennis Hammon. We also announced Ron Nichols as our newest ASP Fellow. What an incredible event!

Monday’s Late Night Lounge was full of energy and fun! Everyone took advantage of the photo booth (thank you once again Bill and Tanya Vahrenkamp), munched on Wisconsin cheese (thank you Jamie Steeno), and jostled for the last chance at the Silent Auction offerings. A great time was had by all!

Images of Distinction Round One is already in the works. Be sure to mark your calendars for the judging and follow-up critiques on March 20-21.

The Mentorship program will be opening soon. I encourage you to sign up to serve as a mentor as well as take advantage of the opportunity to be a mentee. What a great member value!

The second Exhibition Collection, “Resonance: Perspectives Through the Lens”, opens March 26 at the Nepenthe Gallery in Alexandria, VA., followed by a day of fun in Washington, D.C. Check out the details on our website. While you are there, head over to the store to purchase an exhibition book, the latest Best of the Best book, and grab some ASP merchandise from the store. I love my ASP jacket!!

Also, don’t forget to check out the upcoming Tag-Along and International events. From photographing birds during spring migration and waterfalls along the Oregon coast to Iceland, we are crossing the country and the world as we share in fellowship and fun!

ASP has so much to offer. Please take the time to fill out your profile on the website and let us know how you would like to become involved. There is no better way to feel connected and deepen friendships than to serve together. YOU are what makes ASP special. Thank you for being part of our village. I look forward to serving with you.