Post by Andy Vance, MBA, CAE

Fellow association professionals, this is a tremendous opportunity to lead an outstanding organization. My time at the Poultry Science Association was incredibly rewarding, and we accomplished an incredible amount of good over a three year period: launch of a new strategic plan, record membership, consistent year-over-year growth in meeting attendance and sponsorship support, launch of new scholarships and fellowships, the endowment of the PSA Fund for Student Success, acquisition and move to open access of the journal European Poultry Science, launch of the PSA Pacific Rim Scientific Conference in China, and that’s just off the top of my head. I had the pleasure of working with some incredible leaders, including two visionary Presidents in Dr. Tom Porter and Brian Fairchild, longtime Treasurer Doug Britton, brilliant board members like Chuck Hofacre, Karen Christensen, and Sasha van der Klein, and the absolute best journal editors in the business in Michael Kogut, Brian Fairchild, and Barbara Tzschentke. PSA’s exceptional staff is what initially drew me to the organization. David Busboom is one of the finest humans I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with (he is PSA’s biggest unsung hero), and I’m proud we recruited stellar professionals like Lyndsey (Murphy) Johnston, Isabella Woolslayer, MPA, PACE, Cara Tharp, CMP, and Jenny P. to the team. I’m prouder still that Lyndsey and Isabella have continued their career growth by moving on to greater opportunities, but I want to recognize the incredible role they played in PSA’s growth and success. It’s an exciting time in poultry science, with fantastic opportunities ahead. The legendary Don McIntyre is doing an amazing job leading the transition, and the Association owes him a debt they’ll never be able to repay for stepping up and going above and beyond the call of duty. If you are interested in the role, I encourage you to reach out to Don. This is a great opportunity for the right leader. I’m excited for the next chapter in the life of this storied organization!