President’s Message Spring 2021

Thank You, Sharon.

We will soon have to wish our Executive Director Sharon Powers, a sad but grateful farewell. As most of you already know, Sharon will be leaving us in May. With my President’s message for this issue of the Dams & Levees Bulletin I would like to take a little time to publicly thank Sharon for all she has done for the US Society on Dams, and let a few others who’ve worked closely with her share their own thoughts as well. I noted some of her accomplishments in my last message, but many bear repeating. They include:

• A membership increase of nearly 25%
• Launching several in person and online education and training programs, including a learning management system on our website
• Increasing circulation of USSD Dams & Levees Bulletin and monthly e-Newsletter
• Creating a successful a virtual conference in 2021 with over 470 registered attendees
• Securing PPP loans in 2020-2021, both forgiven, during the pandemic
• Helping secure a multi-year grant from FEMA to develop Tailings Dam Guidelines
• Ushered in USSD’s updated strategic plan to help guide our initiatives and growth over the next five years

There isn’t enough space here to give everyone the opportunity to share their gratitude for Sharon’s hard work and professionalism, so I encourage you to reach out to her directly and thank her on your own.

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