My tenure as AAPG secretary began in the summer of 2023, coinciding with the birth of my first child. During my second Executive Committee meeting, I found myself with a four-week-old infant in my arms as I participated, pondering whether I had adequate time for this role. Fast forward to today, with a 20-month-old toddler, I recognize that the challenges of mastering my responsibilities as secretary and establishing my voice on the Executive Committee have been well worth the effort.
As secretary, my primary duties include documenting the actions of the Executive Committee and overseeing all non-technical publications, such as the EXPLORER. Although these responsibilities might seem straightforward, AAPG has faced the larger issue of identifying our place in the current world – specifically, how to meet our members’ needs while maintaining financial stability. Throughout my term, the Executive Committee has diligently worked to ensure AAPG’s financial health. Challenges have arisen, including the costly and protracted closure of our London office. Nevertheless, we have critically evaluated our programming and the staff has excelled in executing events with positive financial outcomes. Membership decline remains a concern for all groups, prompting the Executive Committee to reflect on our unique value proposition and strategies to leverage it effectively.
Our ultimate goal is to cultivate an engaged membership to fulfill AAPG’s mission “to promote the science of geology, advance technology and inspire professional conduct.” A significant focus during my term has been the “AAPG Reimagine” initiative, which, although not passed by the House of Delegates, highlighted internal divisions regarding members’ visions for the organization’s future. Through sustained volunteer efforts on committees, at events and in elected leadership roles, I remain optimistic that we can navigate these divisions.
‘The Most Enduring Impact’
As I look toward the final months of my term, my key objective is to facilitate the appointment of a new executive director of AAPG. It is a privilege to be on the Search Committee and one of the eight votes of the Executive Committee for this crucial decision. I aim to ensure we select a candidate capable of positioning AAPG for financial stability and growth into 2025 and beyond. This decision will likely be the most enduring impact of any vote I have cast on the Executive Committee.
Reflecting on my time as AAPG secretary, I am reminded of a favored riddle posed to Bilbo from Gollum in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”:
“This thing all things devours:
Birds, beasts, trees, flowers;
Gnaws iron, bites steel:
Grinds hard stones to meal;
Slays kings, ruins town,
And beats high mountain down.”
The answer: Time.
While it might seem that AAPG is in a state of stagnation, though not as prolonged as geologic time, ongoing efforts to progress will eventually lead to advancements. Even when motions and votes fail, the dedication and energy volunteers contribute are vital. Over time, I hope AAPG will remain a leader in the geological science community for years to come.