Just because an Administrative Council Member’s term has ended, that doesn’t mean that they are no longer invested in the future of Western SARE and of agriculture in our region. For that reason, Western SARE has developed an “alumni” program and is reinvigorating it this year.
The first step toward a re-energized alumni program took place at the Administrative Council’s (AC) meeting in Spokane Washington this July. Four alumni – one a former Regional Coordinator and three former AC chairs – joined the current AC for an afternoon session. Phil Rasmussen, Larry Cundall, Mark Frasier, and Cindy Lair contributed their insights during a facilitated discussion answering the questions:
- What is your favorite memory of your time with Western SARE?
- What are significant changes Western SARE should be prepared for in the next five years?
- Are there changes to our current method of looking for innovative proposals and funding the best projects you recommend we address in the next five years?
It truly was a lively discussion with many perspectives. The discussion is now being fed into the AC’s strategic planning process.
Later that evening, Western SARE honored Phil Rasmussen for his passion, ingenuity, and laser focus in helping establish Western SARE and guiding the program for 20 years. His inspiring keynote address also focused on the future of agriculture and the program. The AC and staff appreciated his sage advice on how to always work together as a team with one goal – advancing sustainable agriculture in the West.
Staff and AC members will be reaching out to other previous AC members to ask about their interest in staying connected with Western SARE. Methods to get involved could include speaking engagements and acting as a grants Technical Reviewer.