As we end 2009, I am extremely pleased to be able to deliver some GOOD news: STC has weathered the first and most severe crisis—that of a fourth quarter cash deficit. I want to express my sincere thanks to the chapters and SIGs for their support and partnership (as painful as it has been), and to the tireless efforts of the committees, the Board, and the staff in making almost $1M USD in expense cuts and cost savings.
In the last year, members have heard from the STC Board of Directors and staff more than 50 times . . . probably more than you wanted, considering some of our messages, but it was information you need to have. The impact to STC’s finances was unprecedented and affected all of us. Like my predecessor, I insisted that the Board’s actions and discussions be as open as possible and to involve community leaders and members.
STC is stronger and better positioned for 2010 and the future:
- Our remaining reserves are conservatively invested and year-to-date activity reflects a net change in investment earnings of approximately $86,000. We hope to begin rebuilding our reserves by 2011.
- Dues have been restructured to cover the true basic costs of supporting the membership. And, all members can now configure their memberships the way they want them.
- Our new Gold Membership offers an extraordinary package of services at an extraordinary savings, and I’m thrilled to see a lot more members have chosen this category than expected. (I chose it too!)
- We offered up to 400 Recovery Packages to help members most impacted by the recession to remain members.
- We have increased our educational offerings in the form of online certificate courses and monthly webinars, which will help to prepare members for the challenges of the current and evolving future workplace,
- We have a conservative, balanced budget for 2010!
This is a solid way to begin the New Year. I am grateful to all of you for your continued loyalty to STC, your dedication to improving the profession, and the Herculean efforts of our volunteers. I am proud to be STC president and I am looking forward to continued forward motion for STC as we climb out of the financial crisis for good and get on with the business of promoting the professional of technical communication, supporting our current members in relevant ways, and scouting for new members and others who will benefit from STC.
The future is bright indeed! Happy New Year everyone!
Cynthia C. Currie
2009-10 STC President