Past Presidential Pondering
by Jane Bennett

This past year of 2009 went extremely fast for me so my Presidency of the Virginia Rehabilitation Association seemed over before it got started good. I was pleasure to serve in this capacity of the last year and I want to thank all the members of the board and the membership for all their support and assistance during this last year. In particular, special thanks go to Amy Miller, Alison Mundy, Eleanor Williams, and Mary Kaye Johnston for their support in getting me through the year. Without their assistance the year would have turned out very differently! So thank you so much ladies!

I want to give a huge welcome to our new President – Liz Smith. I wish her all the luck and know that VRA is in good hands with Liz. As Past-President, I’ll be here supporting her as I received during my year as president. I look forward to a GREAT 2010!

Jane E. Bennett, MA, CRC, CRP
VRA Past President, 2009-2010

Presidential Pondering
by Liz Smith

I am looking forward to beginning my term as President of VRA and working with an outstanding group of individuals who so willingly provide leadership to this professional organization.

I was very pleased to learn that VRA is expected to receive $8000 in proceeds from the 2009 Collaborations Conference. As you may have heard, the planning for the Collaborations Conference last year was a little “dicey” as the Planning Committee fretted over the possibility of low attendance and being unable to meet our bills due to the economic situation. Thought was given to canceling the Conference. Thank goodness that did not happen, as participation in the Conference was enthusiastic and the $8000 proceeds is just an added bonus. Thanks to all who were able to attend and support the conference!!! I know we all look forward to hearing about the plans for the 2010 Conference.

I also look forward to all of the upcoming activities and events that make VRA the great organization that it is. I challenge us all to help build and strengthen our membership, to offer educational programs that enhance the knowledge, skills and abilities of our members and other VR professionals, to continue to aggressively advocate for the programs and services that so ably serve Virginians with disabilities, to build leadership within our organization, and to partner with our National organization and other organizations whose mission is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. I also hope that we’ll HAVE SOME FUN ALONG THE WAY!

If you would like to be more involved with VRA please contact me or any other Board members. There’s a lot to do and I’ll be reporting back to you periodically on activities and events.

Thanks for your support of VRA, VARL, VRCEA and the VRA Foundation and of Virginians will disabilities who are the beneficiaries of these organizations.

Submitted by Liz Smith
VRA President 2010-2011