Hello everyone, for the last time as your National President…
Fifty four years ago, women from several different states had a big dream – they gathered together and chartered Omega Phi Alpha in Bowling Green, OH. Their bold decision led the way for over 11,000 people across 19 states to impact their communities through countless acts of service in the years since.
In 2015, the Vision 2020 strategic planning team also had a big dream. They envisioned a new national structure with a Board of Directors focused on strategic direction and a team of operational leaders engaged with our chapters. This significant cultural and operational shift has been a major focus for the outgoing Board and continues to evolve. We’re developing a talent pipeline where dozens of volunteer leaders are contributing their time and talent to OPA.
For many years, Pamela McCullough McEwen had a big dream – to establish a foundation so alums and friends of OPA could support the mission of our organization. On April 8, 2019 that dream came true when the Omega Phi Alpha Foundation was officially recognized as a non-profit entity. The OPA Foundation Board of Directors also had big dreams when they launched the Founder’s Circle campaign to raise $50,000 and OPA’s supporters answered the call!
My big dream for OPA has been to establish paid staff roles so that our organization can benefit from the focused attention, collaboration and longevity that type of support can provide. With the creation of an Executive Director role we took a step in that direction and then further refined the position as Managing Director to best fit OPA’s needs. I am excited to see how the incoming board continues to shape OPA’s paid staff roster to best position our sisterhood for success.
I used the “DREAM BIG” theme when I wrote my daughter’s senior letter for her sorority earlier this year. She agreed to let me share those words with all of you as my closing message of hope for your individual futures and Omega Phi Alpha’s.
Do what you love.
When you are passionate about your work, the possibilities are endless!
Recognize and build upon your strengths.
Use your natural strengths and talents to make an impact and bring out the best in your relationships.
Establish sincere, lasting friendships.
Always make time for true, sincere friends who share your values and will support you in good times and in bad.
Always remember that we are proud of you and all your accomplishments.
Whatever may happen in the future, you can always turn to your OPA family for advice, comfort and unfailing love.
Make time for new adventures.
Life is full of demands and other priorities, so be sure to be intentional about feeding your soul and expanding your horizons in this way.
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
As a leader now and in the future, always embrace this responsibility.
Inspire others.
Always carry yourself in a way that will inspire those coming up behind you.
Goals – set them, accomplish them, and celebrate them!
Spend some time defining what success means to you and establish goals that lead you in that direction.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” These wise words from Eleanor Roosevelt perfectly sum up my hope for you in the years to come. Dream big. Believe in yourself. Go out and create your future!
Forever in Service,
Jan Titsworth