Message from the AMCA President...

Dear Members,

I had an entirely different letter put together for my first newsletter as our association President up until a few days ago...

 In our roles as city clerks, we often have to be the quiet anchors of our communities, always carrying out our duties with integrity, calm, and consistency, even as the world around us shifts. But no matter how steady we may be for others, we are not immune to the moments that can make us feel broken: loss, grief, and the deep sorrow that can follow when we lose a colleague, friend, or loved one. Over the last several days, I have been reminded that this group of professionals is so much more than a simple state association of people who share the same career; it is a group of individuals who think of each other as family, who care and support and step up and show up in the good times and the bad times. The support that so many showed in being present for Rommel’s family is incredibly meaningful, and it makes me proud to know that we are who we are.

 It doesn’t surprise me at all that losing a person that meant so much to so many of us had the impact that it did, but in small and profound ways these loses show us how important these connections are because life is fragile and in these moments, what sustains us — and what continues to define us as a profession—is our ability to come together. Our presence and support of one another matters.

 I hope that we can all carry the amazing things Rommel gave us into the future. His kindness, his dedication, his humor, his love of learning, and his support of those around him are all things that struck me about him. I was proud to have had the chance to know him, to work with him, to learn from him, and to see what he was able to give to us all just by being himself; and I’m proud to have that opportunity with every member of this group. Thank you for all that you do every day for your communities and for each other. I’m looking forward to serving with each and every one of you over the next year.