ESA is a treasure - some of our ways are old; some more up to date. If we are to move forward as fast as technology, we will need to make our old treasures new again..
There has been talk about changes: in the number of days for convention meeting, in the number of state meetings and how meetings are run, to name a few. Change has to come from within; we cannot change anything until we look deep into ESA and ourselves. My question: why is change a good thing? We are a leadership and service organization that brings "good people together to pursue programs and projects that make a positive difference - locally, nationally and internationally". Where did I find this? In "The Ideals of ESA" booklet.
Over the past 89 years, we have come together to learn, grow and serve. In 1930 the charter was signed, making ESA a national sorority. Today we are known as a philanthropic organization - growth/changes. We are known by doing awesome work in all states and internationally. This didn't happen in the blink of an eye. Daily, someone somewhere is looking for ways to improve Epsilon Sigma Alpha. Let Florida be one that has new ideas to share.
I'd like to tell you about my pin. I wear this (as everyone should) over my heart. I pledged 30 years ago and was presented with the Lamp of Learning pin. Later I received the Open Book with its 10 jewels (pearls) that have great significance to me. This is my badge of honor and friendliness, Not everyone has this, and when I see another member with this pin, I know that they are striving for the same reachable goal that I'm working toward. Read through the meaning again; is this not why we are here?
I think about how ESA has helped so many, millions upon millions of people. I don't have a number,because when we help one person, one child, we have already touched that family's life, whether it's 5 people or 100.. We touch communities by our philanthropic work. Others learn what ESA is all about and want to join.
Think about our Disaster Fund,; many of us have received funds to assist iin times of need. We are helping our own. The Foundation receives financial support but gives this, as well, in our scholarship grants. Isn't this growth/change?
This year I would like to challenge every chapter president in the Florida State Council (FSC) to review our "Ideals" along with our By Laws and Standing Rules; take time during your meetings for this.. There have been changes over the past few years; refresh (hit the F5 button on your computer) so the seasoned members, along with our new members, have the knowledge at their fingertips and can ask questions to help them understand. Our organization is here to assist, teach and learn. Let's start within our own personal space.
I had an experience the other day at the dentist office. It's been a while since I've had a cleaning...my visit went well, I'm happy to say. My teeth felt great when I left, refreshed after being away for so long. As I was leaving, my thoughts turned to ESA. Maybe that member who has been away for a while might need to have that same feeling as I did about coming back to ESA. Maybe we can ask what we can do to improve so you will return. One question may make their day: Why don't you come to our next meeting, even if it's only to say "hi" to your sisters? Invite a friend!!
In closing, I cannot promise you that I will be your best FSC president; what I can promise is "I'll do the best that I can" to keep FSC of ESA moving forward and to keep us alive by "Making old treasures new...again".
Thank you for electing me as your 2018/2019 FSC President.
Ida Schultz
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