This time of year, it feels natural to express our gratitude. I’m really grateful to IABC for giving me many things that have shaped my career and really enriched my life. Below are just a few in totally random order:

• By attending the professional development meetings, IABC has given me the opportunity to connect with leaders in our industry and continue my ongoing industry education.
  
  
• I have met and become friends with some of the most committed, talented and outgoing people. Plus, people in communications are fun!
  
  
• I have been given the opportunity to sharpen my leadership skills through service to the board. Serving on a board can seem like a big commitment, but it’s really not as daunting and time consuming as you might think. It’s a great way to really get to know your fellow IABC members and it really is rewarding.
  
  
• The connections I’ve made with IABC members and even speakers are priceless. I could even go as far as to say I owe my current job to the associations I’ve made at IABC meetings. I can also credit acquaintances forged at IABC meetings for multiple speaking and volunteer opportunities.
  
  
• Bronze Quill Awards – the ultimate opportunity to showcase your work and get valuable insight as to how your strategic communication programs and projects stack up against your peers. It’s an incredibly valuable learning tool and can help you build strong portfolio filled with communication pieces that show your range as a communicator.
  
  
• THE HOLIDAY PARTY! The most fun you will have on a Wednesday night in early December (December 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Classic Bean downtown, to be exact).

 
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Tracey