September marks the beginning of the new fiscal year for MDRT, and all of the new officers, committee chairs and committee members take their positions. The objectives have been established and plans for the next twelve months are already in motion. September is always an exciting time for the organization because it opens up new possibilities to enhance member benefits and bring the full value of MDRT to our members.
September also marks the transition of leadership positions on the Executive Committee. Based on our bylaws, we must bid farewell to Jim Rogers, our Immediate Past President. Jim has served the organization for five exceptional years as a member of the Executive Committee, and his leadership has helped steer the organization through many important and far-ranging decisions. On behalf of all members, it is my honor to thank Jim for his dedication and hard work.
September also brings transition for Walton Rogers. Walton has served as President of MDRT for the last 12 months. His efforts to visit members throughout our organization have been herculean. In addition, he has guided the Executive Committee through major disruptive circumstances. His leadership and guidance has kept a steady hand on the tiller as the organization has been buffeted by the swells of economic chaos and had to deal with some very critical decisions.
Now it is my turn to step into this slot. We have a plate full of opportunity. With the addition of Scott Brennan as the new secretary, I am confident the Executive Committee will be able to continue the path that has been charted in recent years. Scott joins Julian Good and Jennifer Borislow to round out the Executive team. With their able assistance, MDRT has updated our already successful mentoring program. In addition, our public service Financial Literacy program in conjunction with AALU and the FDIC is nearing implementation. MDRTV has seen a huge increase in visitors with over 200 main platform presentations there for viewing. Plans are nearly complete for the 2010 Experience to be held in March, in Seoul, Korea. We also are making plans to introduce an exciting educational program through MDRT University which will be available throughout our membership.
So, we have been presented with many opportunities to help members grow and increase their productivity. Whenever there is turmoil, there is opportunity. We must keep a long-term perspective, and not allow the short term disappointments and challenges to interfere with our ultimate objective. Remember – what the mind conceives, and the heart believes, is what you can achieve. MDRT members are world class financial professionals, not only because they are financially successful, but also because they are able to survive and thrive during the most challenging times. I am honored to serve this year as your president. It is my hope that we will all look back on 2009-2010 and say, "It was a very good year."
