By Mary Ann W. Lewis, FSAVE – President, SAVE International
Member – [mem-ber], noun
A person, animal, plant, group, etc. that is part of a society, party, community, taxon or other body…
Well, that is the official definition but it has a much more personal meaning for me. I joined SAVE International when it was still the Society of American Value Engineers. I’ve gone from being one of the youngsters to now being referred to as oh-so-old. Over the years, I have made life-long friends through this society. I brought many of our clients into the organization so they were able to learn from the best. Membership is an active sport to me. I have found that volunteering is fun – having been a chapter director, government liaison, Miles Value Foundation member and SAVE Board member in a few slots, I have realized that the active approach is fulfilling. I think most SAVE volunteers would agree.
We have seen many changes this past year. Our leadership is comprised of members who have committed their personal time to improve the performance and cost of the society – the basic tenets of the Value Methodology. My simple message to you all is that membership is critical for the sustainability of SAVE International and the evolution of the organization continues daily. As you learn, meet new professionals and develop your own careers, remember to renew your membership, participate in the leadership team, bring your colleagues and clients to the table, and enjoy the life of an active participant!
Thank you and very happy holidays to you and your families.