August/September 2006

Volume 47, Number 1

Interim Executive Director’s Report

Excerpted from the 2006 Annual Board Meeting report, which is archived at http://www.stc.org/PDF_Files/0605_AnnualBusMtgReport.pdf

"Rob Moran gave an overview of his 8-month term as interim executive director of STC. He thanked the STC Staff for their work. He also commended the Board and Assistants to the President for their tremendous dedication and energy. He also recognized Susan Burton, the incoming Executive Director. Rob next talked about themes he sees in his work with STC: a period of openness, mutual understanding, alignment of financing and strategic plans, connectedness, the experience as a member, and a period of affirmation. He also mentioned the emergence of hope, and the maturity of the Board in how they define problems.

Rob covered some of the various activities in STC. In the area of Education, he mentioned repurposing of educational materials, and referred to a report by the Education Taskforce on the future of education in STC. Rob called out a new interest in exhibitors and vendors. He indicated that we are challenged in the area of membership. We need to rethink how we provide value. One method of doing this is through knowledge-based governance, which has indicated a need to add value through career development activities and promotion of the profession. One of STC’s mantras is that we want it to be painful not to be a member.

In the area of administration, we are examining our IT capabilities and how these support the needs of members. Rob also mentioned that STC is in the process of arranging for sublease of some of the office space in Virginia. In the area of information, we would like to be the crossroads for information about Technical Communication. In the area of communication, Maurice in the office is looking at the current publications and how we make sure our level of sophistication meets the needs of our members, and ensuring that we clearly communicate messages. Rob called out an area of concern, which he termed “active victimization.” The best antidote to this, he believes is action. He urged all members to take action against this trend. Rob believes we are at a beginning that we need to grab hold of; he urged us “do not go quietly”. He asked us to look to one another for support, to act collaboratively, and to support each other as we move forward.

Rob called out some of the new expectations, such as precise communication and transparency, and active discussion. He feels the organization is now ready to move forward. We were not ready a year ago. Rob warned us to recognize the limitations of the past. We can honor it but we must move forward. Rob next addressed STC’s communities. He applauded us for the LCR work which he sees as innovative and comprehensive.

Rob closed by saying his time with us has been memorable. What STC has in front of it is a tremendous future. Two things that are heartwarming about the Board is their passion, and also their tendency to take excursions into the weeds. We need to stay focused on the business at hand. What needs to be in front of us is our dream. He is impressed by our commitment to each other, and our resilience. Rob concluded with a Tech Comm version of the Irish blessing: 'May your words flow effortlessly from your lips and keyboard.'"