Michigan GCSA continues to look to future

Rounding out January's travel, Steve Randall, GCSAA's director of chapter outreach, and I facilitated a strategic planning session with the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association board of directors. Along with chapter executive director, Adam Ikamas, CGCS, eleven of the twelve MiGCSA board members were in attendance which made for a successful session.

Similar to previous chapter strategic planning meetings, the discussion began with members determining what they were hoping to achieve during the session. With suggestions ranging from ways to better serve the MiGCSA members, to discussions on larger future goals, the meeting created a platform for future success. The mission and vision statement were also addressed, with board members providing valuable input on both statements. Ultimately, the vision statement was altered to reflect the chapter’s long-term goals.

The group then moved into the SCOR (strengths, challenges, opportunities and risks) analysis from which we were able to set clear goals and action items for the chapter. These goals and action items will help the chapter achieve short-term success, while also laying the foundation to achieve larger success in the near future. The action items developed by the group were put in place to act as necessary steps as the chapter continually evolves. These preliminary steps will allow the chapter to continue to elevate the industry and its membership while allowing the chapter to establish future goals which are relative to their overall vision.

I want to thank Adam, Steve and the entire MiGCSA board for their dedication to the industry and their association, as well as making the trip to East Lansing for the day. The event not only allowed me to gain valuable experience but also helped forge solid relationships which are the backbone of this great industry. I look forward to working with the MiGCSA on executing the goals which were established from the session.