Evolving to meet your needs — and the way we work — now and in the future
As you read this, we’re packing up the final boxes and moving furniture from our former office in the Medical Society of Virginia building in Richmond.
Today’s move is the second one in recent memory. Almost a decade ago, we sold a building in Norge to come to Richmond. Now, we’re moving to a co-working location, Gather, in Midlothian. In addition to an office there, we also gain access to meeting locations in the city (two offices), Short Pump, and three spots in Hampton Roads. We effectively go from one office to seven (with new Gather locations coming) for less than what we’d been paying.
The move is reflective of the changing nature of work (I largely work from home anyway, but an office is necessary sometimes). The last two years have shown us that virtual connections have opened up more possibilities for our organization. And yes, there’s a cost savings, too.
The move also builds on the foundation laid by past executive directors, such as Gwen Messler Harry (faithful VACEP steward), and Bob Ramsey, an experienced association-management professional who created a leadership pipeline and strong financial position that is the envy of other trade and medical specialty groups. Bob also worked to change the business model of the organization to a leaner, nimbler one by outsourcing much of our work to skilled professionals. We bring that same approach in our move to Gather, where a single price gets us an office, dozens of meeting rooms in two regions, utilities, and of course, all the coffee you can drink. They even offer something called Cookie Wednesdays, which I’m quite excited about.
As VACEP’s leader, my goal is to improve our technology infrastructure and organizational processes. We’ve accomplished a lot in my two years here; much of what you see as a member are increases in advocacy issues we tackle — and the ferocity with which we tackle them. We have more coming soon that will increase these efforts and keep you even better informed and connected to the organization and your EM peers. Professional, I also studied hard and passed the test to earn my Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, and gave my first lecture in association management.
My hope is that you will join me in counting the blessings we’ve gained as a result of the pandemic-induced accelerated rate of change. I know it can be hard to stay positive but, despite all we’ve had to deal with, we have a lot to be grateful for.
Sarah Marshall, CAE
VACEP Executive Director
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