President's Remarks - Winter 2025

This year, as I watched the retailers jump from Halloween directly to Christmas, I was determined not to skip Thanksgiving and do something during our family get-together that would be more meaningful and memorable. Needless to say, I’m GLAD that we did. The evening before Thanksgiving, I sent my family members a text asking them to be prepared to say what they are Grateful for, something they Learned over the past year, something they Accomplished, and something which Delighted them. A few scoffed or snickered, but they did participate. So, as my time as President nears its conclusion, I would like to share my GLAD.

I am Grateful for the opportunity to preside over this Society. It has been a rewarding experience that has helped me grow not only professionally but also as a person. I am Grateful for the numerous colleagues and peers who have helped guide me through this journey. Lastly, I am especially Grateful for our Executive Director, Kelly Ameen, who makes everything happen seamlessly.

During my role as President, I Learned that an amicus brief is a legal document submitted to a court by an individual or organization that is not directly involved in the case. The term is Latin for "friend of the court," and it allows outside parties to provide information or a perspective that may assist the court in making its decision. Essentially, it serves to advocate for a particular outcome or to inform the court about how a ruling may affect broader interests. PSLS joined an amicus brief regarding the statute of repose back in April.

Over the course of my administration, we Accomplished the creation of the Young Surveyors Committee to help promote the younger generation and their aspirations. We reviewed and revised the bylaws for the first time since 2021, including removing the 5-year requirement to serve as an executive board member and granting life members full voting rights. We also emptied the storage unit, which saved us the monthly fee; mission Accomplished.

I was Delighted to attend the professional surveyors’ conferences in New York, Virginia, and Maryland. I was also Delighted to participate in the meetings of the South Central and Delaware Valley Chapters. Finally, I will be Delighted to see everyone at the 2026 PSLS Annual Conference in Hershey, PA from January 11 through January 14. Please register to attend, you’ll be able to watch me turn the reins over to President-Elect, Troy Leighty. Aren’t you GLAD?

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