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approached her dreams for DKG with a courageous spirit. Let’s not be afraid to dream about new and
different possibilities that will move us forward as a strong, relevant organization. Considering these
possibilities provides us with an opportunity to focus on and shape our future.
We are a member-driven organization, which means the work of DKG is accomplished through our
members who are willing to serve. Serving requires us to give of ourselves, whether it is our time, talents,
leadership, ideas, or support. Those who choose to serve often discover that, while their actions may
benefit someone or something else, they are also receiving a benefit. They have the opportunity to grow
and make a difference in someone’s life or even in the world.
DKG needs women who will assume leadership roles at any of the Society’s three levels. John Maxwell,
well-known for his books on leadership, offers this description of a leader: “A leader is one who knows the
way, goes the way, and shows the way” (2019). What most of us have discovered is that different situations
may call for different kinds of leadership. DKG members are leaders. It is when we work together—
sharing our different talents, perspectives, and solutions—that we realize the impact of our efforts. I can
think of no better example of this kind of collaborative leadership than a state organization’s members
working with a facilitator during a revitalization visit. All members present are asked to participate by
responding to several questions posed by the facilitator during a large-group discussion. A considerable
amount of time is set aside so that all members may have an opportunity to speak, and an intentional
effort is made to develop an environment that encourages mutual respect. One question that often draws a
great variety of responses is: “How do you want to change the ‘story’ of your state organization?” When
members understand that there is no right or wrong answer and that all ideas are truly valued, the door to
a successful revitalization experience opens. As Benjamin Zander, author of The Art of Possibility (2000),
reminded us at the 2018 international convention … We can lead from any chair in the room!
Using our voices to reveal our ideas, concerns,
and successes is an important responsibility that
we all share. I was excited to see the number of
members who recently participated in the Town
Hall Meetings via ZOOM. Many have also offered
input to consultants Avenue M regarding their
membership experience. Last biennium, we began
meeting electronically with members who had
just become DKG members. We answered their
questions, inquired about their expectations for
membership, and emphasized the importance of
staying connected in a variety of ways. The Inside
International meetings have provided another way
for us to communicate. You are being heard, and
your voices do matter!
I am deeply honored to receive the International
Achievement Award. I appreciate all of you and
your dedication to our wonderful organization.
Thank you again for being a significant part of my
DKG journey. I look forward to our future travels
Past International Achievement Award Winners — together!
from top left: Barbara Clausen (2022), Evelyn Barron
(2005), and Dr. Judith Merz (2019) — congratulate
2023 recipient Becky Sadowski at the 2023 International
Conference in Phoenix.

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