President's Message
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Mike Kmec |
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Mike Kmec named "future foodservice leader" by Foodservice Equipment & Supplies magazine. |
Hello to the entire Northeast Region!
I just wanted to say hi as we all gear up for the Spring Semester. We here at Connecticut College have had the students return and they all eat as if they starved over break. I think the freshman fifteen is catching to the upper classmen as well.
There have been lots of things going on since my last letter. Our new Executive Director Gretchen Couraud started her position November 1, 2012. She brings a lot of positive energy to NACUFS and I’m very happy to have her be apart of our great association. The region has hosted three sub-regionals since September of 2012. We had the “Summer Business Forum” at Smith College, the “Sustainability in Collegiate Food Service” at Phillips Exeter Academy, and just presented “Veg Out” hosted by Cornell University. All were incredibly successful and I want to thank everyone who made them happen.
The 2013 Regional Conference is open for registration. This year it will be at SUNY Cortland and it will be a fantastic experience. Between the speakers, interest sessions, culinary challenge, showcase, and loads of networking opportunities the registration fee of $215 is a steal. In addition, the region is offering a rebate of $700.00 for one person and $900.00 for two people from a school that has never attended or that has not attended a regional conference in the last three years. This rebate will be given out on a first come first serve basis so apply soon using the financial assistance form. As always, all schools are welcome to apply for financial assistance to any NACUFS event.
The deadline to apply to the educational institutes is March 8, 2013. While this may seem like a long ways off, it really isn’t. The NACUFS educational institutes are an invaluable resource and helps shape future leaders of NACUFS and the industry. Institutes aren’t a guarantee to attend as you have to apply and be chosen but you can’t get picked if you don’t apply.
As some of you may know Gina Guiducci of Brown University is stepping down as the regional nutrition committee chair person as she is now on the national nutrition committee. Michele Wilbur of Cornell University will be taking her place after the regional conference. Michele brings a wealth of knowledge with her and great enthusiasm. The council is looking forward to her joining us.
Lastly, I want to implore you to use your membership. Bear with me while I share a story. When you see geese flying along in "V" formation, you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way. The formation of the "V" might be an interesting sight to see, but the impressive birds bring a great sense of unity and teamwork to their flight that many schools can benefit from learning. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in "V" formation, the whole flock adds greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going more quickly and easily because they are traveling on the thrust of one another. If we have as much sense as a goose, we will align with those people who are headed the same way we are. We must be willing to allow others to help lift us up, all the while helping those who may fall out of formation. We need to make sure our methods are positive and productive in order to encourage our teammates to perform. A team with encouragement, production and successes is greater than those with without! We must stand strong with the members of our group through difficult times. Becoming unified as whole and standing by each other’s side will help pick us up and succeed together. NACUFS does all of this for you and more. Your membership dollars pay for a wide variety of services that connect you to an extensive network of schools and individuals. All you have to do is reach out and grab them. I encourage you to do so and I’m one of many who will personally help any school or person who wants one on one help in using their membership. All you have to do is ask.
Sincerely,
Michael Kmec
Northeast Region President
Financial Assistance for NACUFS Education
The NACUFS Northeast Region is pleased to announce a new fund that will provide financial assistance for institutions to send an employee to any NACUFS-sponsored educational event, including regional or national conferences.
To request financial assistance, please complete this form 30 days in advance of the event, and submit to the Northeast Region president.
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