I hope this finds you well. As this year comes to a close, I would like to take some time to reflect on the past year as it relates to the Student Planning Association. First and foremost, I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to my executive board for their work and endeavors this year. Without them, SPA would have no reason or existence this past year. I would like to personally thank Marcus O. for his tireless work above and beyond the call of duty. Elected to run the treasury, which I must give accolades in keeping us running, despite the lack of a budget, Marcus stepped in to work in relations with the Architecture College Council, and provide counsel to me at times.
I would also like to recognize Chad R., and his enthusiasm and dedication to the organization from the get go. He has embraced what SPA spirit is all about. That even included a grassroot campaign machine to run for president, and its associated spirit of change. He brings new ideas and energy that SPA needs in the coming year. SPA is in good hands with Chad.
To my other officers this past year, you all pulled through and delivered a spectacular program in the most unfortunate of financial circumstances. Thanks.
To the graduating students, congrats. Thesis is done (PHEW!). Now its just days from graduation and the real world.
The past year, our department saw a dramatic increase in the number of students, and the associated strain as a result. Regardless, our first years got into the game and made a sense of comradely not seen in a while. Investing in a program that is theirs, they stepped in to make their voices heard this past December regarding changes to the curriculum, and definitely made an impact upon the faculty.
We also reached out to our community, though not as much as I would have liked. We went to Anastasia State Park, where we provided service to the Florida Park Service, and made an impact upon our environment (I'm sure the baby sea turtle saved definitely appreciated it).
We can not though forget about our shortcomings. Whether it be short notice or excessive notice on my part about meetings and happenings, or the lack of interest to absorb those messages...this is something we will need to work on as the new year comes for our executive board. Two way communication is key for the survival of any organization. It is hard for any member of the executive board to make decisions without student input. Many a times the faculty looks to the President and V. President for the official student input. That can be a burden quite troublesome to bear without proper consultation with the URP student body.
Also of note, is the distancing of the department. This is meant as how faculty, students, staff, alumni, and local professional community are further apart than ever before. As students we are the future of the profession, the faculty and staff are the educators who bring the past into present context and future application, and the local professionals give present context through practical lenses. This complex relationship is crucial for a vibrant and robust program. It is my hope that the coming years we can start to cultivate better ties with all in this dynamic relationship, for the betterment of our department.
I'm sure there were other issues that came up throughout the year that kind of dampened SPA's mission and vision, but the goal is that SPA recognize its shortcomings, improve upon it, and strive for the successful achievement of its mission of providing a forum for professional, academic, and social development with our professional and academic colleagues, as well as make a lasting impact upon our community.
Lastly, let us not forget a cherished member of our department, who made a lasting impact. Our best wishes that he rest in peace...Dr. Ernest Bartley.
With that, I will leave this as my last message as President of SPA for this 2007-2008 year and bid adieu...
Ben P.
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