I can't believe today is the final day of 2013. Wow! What a year it has been. There have been so many great things happening in public procurement and with NIGP. We celebrated another amazing Forum in Orlando where we connected so many wonderful procurement communities. We made great progress in our programs and we continued to grow existing partnerships while developing new ones. And we started exciting new initiatives, such as NIGP 2.0, working toward a new governance model for the future of NIGP and public procurement. We celebrated accomplishments, we worked through challenges and we developed plans for the coming year. Although 2013 was filled with the continued challenges of the economy, we have seen improvements for NIGP and for agencies throughout North America. We have seen our profession become more and more engaged in critical projects for our communities, as leadership in our organizations continue to recognize the value of procurement. We have much work ahead of us, both as NIGP and as procurement professionals at home, but it is sure to be an exciting year of opportunity in 2014.
As you begin the first day of a brand new year, I challenge you to dream about the possiblitiies of your next 365 days. You control so much of your days, months and year ahead. You control your vision, your attitude and your commitment to whatever the next year has in store for you....planned and unplanned. I encourage you to take time at the onset of this new year to decide where you would like to be, what you would like to accomplish and how you intend on achieving that dream. Although obstacles may get in your way from time to time, decide now that you won't let them hold you back. Be willing to adjust along the way, but don't lose sight of that dream. Never let anyone tell you that you can't achieve your dreams....focus on those who will support you and move past those who try to hold you back. Surround yourself with positive people, pray for those who are negative. Be a light to those around you....encourage them, help them.....make a difference in their lives.
I pray that 2014 is a safe, healthy and joyful year for all of you and your families. I pray our profession continues to make great strides as we continue to provide valuable service to our communities. I pray that NIGP continues to grow more valuable to each of you in your daily work lives. I pray for our staff and all our volunteer leaders at all levels, who do so much for NIGP and the profession....thank you!
We are all a procurement family....we are here to help one another. Commit to making optimal use of NIGP this coming year....there is so much there for you. And remember, you have MUCH to offer, so please share with your professional colleagues and the profession. Make 2014 a year where you personally make a difference......and if you are willing....feel free to share your goals for 2014 with me. Happy New Year everyone! God Bless!!
Marcheta