As we welcome in 2013, I am so excited about the direction our Chapter is going. I have been involved in the Chapter for the past 6 years and have seen a multitude of changes - from being granted full 501(c)3 status, expanding into a State Chapter with 5 Branches, to hosting the 9th Annual Greening the Heartland Regional Conference! As a Chapter, we have had our struggles, but have come through them stronger and more eager to truly enact our Chapter's Mission.

Last year was a busy year for us. Not only did we host the GTH conference, but we also recognized the need to ensure our Branches were operating smoothly and being adequately supported. Our Chapter now has 3 Branches and 2 Interest Groups - allowing South Central and North Central to rebuild their volunteer base and resources without the pressures of having to operate as full Branch. This was a long and delicate process, but in the end I believe it helped us all learn and understand what each Branch, current and new, will need to have in place to be effective in bringing our Mission and Vision to the public.

I look forward to bringing our Advocacy and Community Outreach/Awareness campaigns to the forefront this year. We have a great Board of Director's, filled with dedicated and motivated individuals. However, we as a Board cannot accomplish anything without you, our Members!  I am here as the Chair of USGBC Indiana because it is an organization I believe in with a Mission that I am passionate about. My career and my time revolve around not only sustainability, but helping to educate and motivate others about it. Benjamin Disraeli said, "Man is only truly great when he acts from passion." With this, I ask you - our USGBC Indiana Members - to use that passion and get involved with your local Branch or Interest Group. Together, we can truly make a difference!