Thanks to You, We’re Weathering the Pandemic Well

A day ago, ABI began a new fiscal year. As I note every year, the date is much more than a simple accounting mark.

July is important to ABI because it provides the opportunity to take stock of the past year and prepare for success in the year ahead. We ask questions such as “Did we meet our programming and budget goals?” and “Did we serve members well?” The question this time, of course, was “Did ABI survive the second global pandemic in its 117 years of existence?”

Through February, ABI was enjoying a record year. There was great participation in events, terrific financial results, strong Foundation programming and legislative success. All of these things were highlights when COVID-19 hit and blew it all up.

In the face of the pandemic, ABI acted in the same way members acted. We took steps to protect the health and safety of our employees and customers (you, ABI members). We postponed or cancelled events. We worked to maximize cash flow and provide programming electronically. While the impact of the pandemic is far from over, I am pleased to say ABI has thus far weathered it well and has continued to serve members throughout it all.

That is thanks to you. 

We never take for granted that ABI members are responsible for the organization’s success, and that is the case again for the past fiscal year. Your investment in ABI led to another great year, with plans in place for an even better year ahead. So, thank you for your support.

Finally, please allow me to thank Immediate Past ABI Chair Cindy Dietz for her exceptional leadership during the past year. And on behalf of another strong leader, new ABI Chair Steven Bradford, I look forward to seeing you in Iowa City-Coralville next June for what I promise will be absolutely fabulous 2021 conference. In the meantime, and on behalf of the board of directors, THANK YOU once more for your support of and investment in ABI.