Dear ASCLD Colleagues and Friends,
 
I am sitting in my car outside a hockey rink thinking about all the things I have lined up for next week at work. As many of you know I am a sport mom. My husband and I are constantly “on the go” taking our children to all sorts of activities. It is so fun to watch your kids enjoying the camaraderie and friendships that inherently develops from their respective teams- it reminds me of our ASCLD membership team.

It takes a multifaceted team to make a project move forward. In Wisconsin, we have leaned on our fellow ASCLD members to assist us in evaluating some rather large projects or tasks. For example, when evaluating buildings, we reached out to a crime laboratory director in another Midwest state to help us evaluate proposals. He had more recent experience then our Wisconsin leadership team on building a new crime laboratory and his insight was extremely helpful. Another example is a recent project for a new LIMS system. We reached out to an ASCLD member on the east coast to assist us in evaluating the LIMS proposals we have been receiving- it has been great to hear his outside perspective. My point is this: reach out to your forensic friends in other states or areas- they bring a wealth of knowledge and a different perspective!

This month is Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage month. As someone who is a member of this group, I am always amazed at the breadth of scientific leaders represented. I also appreciate how our different organizations take the time to recognize important months- if you are looking for anything to share, consider the Care Package developed by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. This body of work features guided meditations, poems and short films.

The work never stops for ASCLD! Currently, we have many hands working to update our website, getting committee Chairs in place, and preparing for the next symposium in Austin. Speaking of committees- please know our Chairs will be reaching out to current committee members to verify they still want to stay on. Not part of a committee? Not a problem! We have plenty of committees to choose from and we need help in all areas. Please consider joining a committee- we have something for everyone, and these are great opportunities for you to help shape ASCLD!

Well, I need to get back in the cold rink and cheer on my favourite player- I hope everyone has an amazing week. Until next time,
 
 
In Your Service,
 
 
Jen
 
Jennifer D. Naugle
ASCLD President