Dear Trustees,

 

We designed a new blueprint for AAIE in May 2018.  We defined seven strategies/priorities to set into motion for our preferred future as an association.  Although we are primarily focused today on ensuring an a robust leadership learning conference in San Francisco (only 19 "sleeps" away) we also surely agree that a single conference does not our association make.  We are moving ahead on other priorities.  

 

Our fourth strategy states, "We will identify and develop critical partnerships to achieve the AAIE vision, mission and  objectives."  The rationale we set reads, "To build critical partnerships to better provide current and aspiring leaders with professional development in support of continuous improvement of leadership perspectives, skills and dispositions."  

 

So, we have acted.  In early November, after discussing with Kevin, I reached out to AISH president Chip Barder to discuss ideas that could guide a strategic partnership or how we might work more closely together.  Many of you will remember that years ago when AISH was a glimmer in people's eye, early organizers wanted to affiliate with AAIE.  For whatever reason, AAIE walked away from the opportunity.

 

History is one thing and taking on the future is another.  So I made an informal pitch to AISH.  While Chip did wonder out loud as to what AISH could gain from such a partnership, the AAIE strategic perspective actually invited an entirely different question, ""What is it about this digital world of galloping change that calls for establishing alliances and strategic partnerships?"  To Chip's credit, he asked that I put some thoughts together and to send ideas on to him.  

 

On such matters, best to incubate thinking and to also refer to organizational research on the ways of forming not-for-profit alliances.  In the past weeks a White Paper has emerged from considering why we should be both assertive and creative in finding partners to better serve our membership.  I would like you to find a bit of blue sky in your schedule and to read the White Paper of AAIE's rationale for seeking a strategic partnership so we can scale up our services.  

 

CLICK HERE for the White Paper on Forming an AAIE Strategic Alliance.  

 

Before sending anything to Chip Barder, I am of course ensuring you have a read about the AAIE rationale for building alliances with complementary associations.  Keep in mind that AISH is one entity to approach, and NAIS can be another as we seek to build off our strategic priority that was set into motion in May 2018.  

 

Please send along your thoughts, ideas for revision and questions or concerns.  See what you think. I do want to sent the White Paper on to Chip and Deb prior to our conference.  

 

All Good Wishes,

 

Mark

 

PS:  The San Francisco AAIE CONVERSATION registration hit 400 today.