Thanksgiving in Dallas means going to bed wondering why the air conditioner is running in November, only to wake up the next morning and hurry to light the heater. Change is the one thing that is predictable! At the end of December, I step down as your Chapter president after a very rewarding year. 

As I glance back, I'm proud to report that we made progress in a number of areas. Throughout the year, we were reminded of AFP's rich 50-year history and AFP's commitment to building a strong network for fundraising professionals. Melanie Perkins and Rebecca Rhule organized one of our strongest schedules of educational luncheon programs and workshops to date for the benefit of Chapter members. Over 550 guests attended our annual NPD luncheon, expertly chaired by Diana Marquis. There we honored six deserving award recipients and confirmed strong support for AFP within the greater Dallas philanthropic community. 

Behind the scenes, Jan Zeigler and her diversity committee have developed a strong framework to improve our Chapter's outreach to different communities. We will continue to strengthen this initiative by reaching out to underrepresented organizations within our membership without regard to age, race, creed, gender, disability or sexual orientation.

Ketchum Pursuant has been a stalwart supporter in 2010. I would like to thank Morgan Boardman for sponsoring Executive Conversations, a new program series that brings seasoned veterans of the philanthropy community together for an evening of informal discussion. Linc Eldredge of Brigham Hill Consultancy, another leader in our community, gave generously of his time and talent to lead a career skills seminar on résumé preparation and interviewing for our members.

Victor Korelstein, despite a heavy travel schedule, never failed to give the Board accurate and detailed monthly financial reports while simultaneously chairing our AFP Now Campaign. That campaign has attracted over $8,000 in member donations, short of our aggressive goal but also an important first step in raising our Chapter's capacity to do more for our members locally. While less than one-quarter of our members supported AFP Now this year, I am confident that with time, participation will grow as it becomes apparent that Chapter membership benefits are becoming more and more valuable. There is still time to add your name to the list of 2010 supporters recognized in this newsletter. To those who have already given, please accept my heartfelt thanks. 

The political winds in Washington are shifting as hard and fast as Texas weather. It will be wise for all of us to keep a watchful eye on developments in Congress, as many of the tax exemptions and regulations effecting non-profits are being scrutinized. I urge you to stay up to date on these developments by visiting www.afpnet.org on a regular basis, and by reading the Chronicle of Philanthropy.

As I reflect on our blessings, I would like to give special recognition to our management company, Madeleine Crouch & Co., which keeps our Chapter runs smoothly. You see Madeleine and her team working at events, but you would be stunned to know how much paperwork and follow-up are required to maintain our standing with AFP International. We are very fortunate to have her as our Chapter administrator. 

And, finally, I would like express my heartfelt appreciation to my fellow members of the Chapter's board of directors for their support and confidence. It has been a special privilege for me to serve as your president.

And with this final note, I turn over the President's Message to Michael George, who has been nominated as president. He has been an exceptional member of the board and has served in a number of key positions, including treasurer. With his leadership and your continued support, our Chapter will continue to reach new heights.