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I grew up in Mobile surrounded by America's Junior Miss supporters. When I agreed to serve on the AJM Board of Directors, I never imagined that I would come to care so much about the program. I soon realized what an honor it is to have the chance to be a part of this wonderful organization, and that is why I am proud to serve as President of the Board for 2010. The AJM program is unlike any other organization I know - from the opportunity to empower young women, to getting to know the other board members and volunteers who have devoted much of their time, energy and resources to making sure this program succeeds.
We on the Board find ourselves challenged in how to best lead AJM into the future - a future that we are all optimistic will bring more sponsors, more participants, and a greater awareness and understanding of what our program is all about. For more than a year, we've worked with Marshall Strategy in reviewing historical and organizational records, fielding surveys to people both inside and outside the AJM family, talking with hundreds of volunteers across the county, and are now analyzing the recommendations presented to us by Marshall Strategy. There is the possibility that this decision could include a name change for our organization. We plan to reach a decision soon as to how to best prepare AJM for success for the next 50 years.
Many of you have devoted your time, energy and resources (and perhaps your life!) to the success of AJM in your community, state, or here in Mobile. So it is not a surprise that such a big decision for AJM is quite an emotional one - it is for many of us on the Board as well. We have received your responses to the surveys and your emails concerning changes to the AJM program. And while we appreciate that there will be some who may not agree with all of the decisions that we make for the program, please know that the Board of Directors works very hard and is committed to ensuring that this program continues to impact the lives of young people for years to come. We hope that this common purpose will be something that we can all rally around as we continue to support the organization and its mission.
The AJM Board is among thousands of volunteers across the nation who devote their lives to making sure young women have the opportunity to experience this program. Please know that the AJM Board of Directors appreciates every volunteer, sponsor, and supporter who helps make AJM successful.
The 2010 AJM Board of Directors | 
Michelle Rodgers, AJM 2009, returned to Mobile after the New Year to participate in the GMAC Bowl game. During her visit she rode in the Greers Food Tiger Mardi Gras Parade, visited children at USA Women's and Childen's Hospital, and joined media at the Greyhound Race Track to "bet on the dog."
