---

President's Message: February 2012
Kate Donovan

I am excited to be settling in to my new role as president of the San Diego Chapter (WJA).

First, I want to say what an amazing chapter we have. Our diverse membership includes jewelry store owners, employees, independents designers, manufacturers, wholesalers, educators, and the press. They are seasoned industry veterans and new affiliates. This diversity has al- ways made the San Diego Chapter a standout whose progressive ideas have occasionally set the stage for changes adopted by other chapters, and within our national organization. I’m eager to continue all the initiatives that chapter presidents bring before me and enthusiastic to work with our membership and board to try some new strategies.

To follow the success of my predecessors and to offer benefits that best serve you, I ask members and not yet members to tell us what you want from the chapter. How can we make your association better? Let us know. Contact me directly or join us at our events and share.

I would also like to welcome our new (and returning) chapter board members. In January, we kicked off the year with our new Chapter Board 2012-2014 gathering for a day long, hands-on, strategic plan- ning session. There are many fantastic ideas and plans for the calendar.

Hope to see you at the next event!

Kate

1katedonovan@gmail.com

---