Reflections of an NEA RA Expo Newbie

Armed with my best booth smile, comfortable shoes and 1,000 lip balms to give away, I set out for Denver to get caught up in the pre- Representative Assembly (RA) energy I had been hearing about since joining the organization six months ago. I was excited to see the setting for the RA and to get the chance to meet some of the members we serve.

I was not disappointed.

The vibe, the energy, THE BUZZ I had been hearing about– it was all there. People were truly excited to be there, which is at the heart of any successful event. It was so great to talk to so many members from across the country. Working at headquarters, I don’t get that opportunity often enough, so I made-up for lost time in the Expo’s Hall of Health and Safety.

You told me about the concerns you have about health issues in your schools. You told me how much you love the students you work with. You told your stories, shared your frustrations, asked great questions, and made myself and the rest of the NEA Health Information Network’s team proud to work with and for members like you! Passionate, dedicated, smart, funny people who work so hard to make each day better for the students you serve. In my book, America cannot ask for anything better than that. 

So thanks for all that you do, and thanks for the Denver memories! The NEAHIN team looks forward to seeing you all next summer in Orlando. And don’t worry, we’ll bring the lip balm.

Bethe

Associate Executive Director

Posted by Bethe Almeras

on July 10, 2014