Message from the Michigan PTSA President Elect
Emerging Minority Leaders Conference
Rejuvinating the Passion
National PTA held its 4th Annual Emerging Minorities Leadership Conference (EMLC) in Atlanta, Georgia on November 6-8, 2009. This year’s theme was No Leader Left Behind.
This was a fulfilling weekend of training and networking. Not only did we have fabulous workshops to attend and the ability to network with other PTA leaders, we were also afforded the opportunity to listen to a few dynamic speakers. Rev. Jesse Jackson empowered us with a moving keynote speech titled, “The Responsibility of a Leader,” that reminded us about our role and duties as leaders. Carey Casey, CEO of the Fatherhood Initiative, gave a thought provoking keynote speech titled, “The Importance of Fathers in Education and the Social Success of Children”. Mr. Casey reinforced what we already know: children need a strong, positive male role model in their lives. Dr. Stephan Sroka gave an electrifying speech titled, “The Power of One: Making a Difference”. Dr. Sroka reminded us all that the little things we do every day make a difference. Michael Wotorson, Director of Community Partnerships for Alliance for Excellent Education gave a heart wrenching speech titled “The Impact of the Common Core State Standards Initiative”. The Common Core Standards Initiative is vital to educating our youth. Our last keynote speech was delivered by our National PTA CEO Byron V. Garrett; his speech was titled “Answering the Call”. Mr. Garrett encouraged us to continue to answer the call of advocating for our youth.
Attending this conference rejuvenated my passion and enthusiasm for PTA. Today I encourage you to take your responsibility as a leader seriously. I want to remind you that YOU make a difference everyday in the lives of the children and parents that you represent everyday. I want to thank you fearless and faithful leaders for answering the call of leadership and advocacy.
Again, thank you all for everything that you do for parents and children everyday.
Shaton Berry
Michigan PTSA President Elect
Michigan PTA - 3300 Washtenaw Avenue, Suite 220 - Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
Email: director@michiganpta.org - Website: www.michiganpta.org - Phone: (734) 975-9500