In our recent strategic planning session your new SVAHU Board met, and caffeine-fueled we set our direction for the 2016-2017 year.  The focus will be on three themes: Sales, Insurance and Technology with at least one theme featured each meeting.  The three letter acronyms 'SIT' wasn't terribly awe inspiring, so in a stroke of genius our new Communications Chair, Lanea Riley and the team settled on calling the program "The SVAHU Speaker Series"  We were off and running!

Next month will host a major event with three very compelling speakers; Janet Troutwein from NAHU Washington DC will give us the update from the national perspective, Peter Lee, from Covered California, will give us the latest news about the Exchange and SHOP programs, and finally, we will hear from David Sacks, CEO of Zenefits.  It's no surprise that a company that aimed so high had a few hiccups and David will talk through what they've learned, getting back on track and what the future will hold.  We'll all remember to keep the Q&A respectful and on point! 

In October we will focus on Sales and Technology with a Social Networking workshop. You are invited to meet Sandy Jones-Kaminsky from BellaDomain. She will walk us through how to use LinkedIn and Twitter to manage and promote an online presence for business. This is no lecture - bring your laptop or tablet so you can apply what you learn in real time!

I'm really excited about the year and honored to have an amazing Board to continue helping SVAHU be a great resource for all of our members.  I'd especially like to thank last year's board who did so much with special attention to a couple of board members who have graciously stepped aside to allow others a turn.  A big thank you to Catrina Reyes for her work as Legislative Chair and Michael Traynor as President.  They both did yeoman's duty for several years and we appreciate their efforts.  Sometimes the hardest work is the volunteer job, and you both did it very well.  Finally I want to give a shout out to those who have stayed on the board through the transition while I scramble to fill Michael's able shoes... Tracey, Susy, Mika, and Brian - your experience and wisdom are valuable and I thank you for helping out for "...one more year!"

Now, for those who are returning, and our new recruits, the year is just beginning and we have a lot to do!