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Mar/Apr 2025 | Vol. 82 No. 2

The Value of Every Voice

By Dr. Beverly Hall-Maughan

2024-2026 International President

uring a meeting with the Revisions Task
Dseveral past international Force in determining
presidents, I was asked, “What how to fill this blank
are you most excited about?” page, each international
Scan the QR code
This question took me by committee was above to submit your
surprise, as there are many tasked with assessing recommendations.

things I find exciting — the the Constitution and International Standing Rules.
ongoing development of the Visionary Networks and They have submitted recommendations based on the
the Leadership Discovery Centre, the implementation following questions:
of a new communication and marketing plan that • What does your international committee
promotes a united voice and brand, the addition of believe should be included in the revision?
inspiring quotes on social media, the updated EEC • What does your committee need to be
Project Spotlight, the inclusion of Artificial Intelligence established in order to guide your work while

Art and Digital Art categories for Art Gallery maintaining its original purpose (consider
submissions, the DKGIEF International Women’s Day efficiency and effectiveness)?
pin, the approach of our next century, and much more. The next step for the Revisions Task Force is to
However, upon reflection, I realized that what I am gather ideas and suggestions from all DKG members.
most excited about is the revision of our governing Each member has the responsibility to review the
documents. As a Society, we have the opportunity to Constitution and International Standing Rules and
completely reimagine our organization. What do we provide input on how we can streamline our processes
want to become? Where do we wish to head? and improve overall effectiveness. This collaborative
Recently, I submitted an article for the Collegial effort seeks to explore innovative ways to enhance

Exchange about the process of revising our governing clarity and ultimately improve our organization’s
documents. Initially, I became defensive when DKG functionality. The insights and perspectives of
Editor Dr. Judy Merz returned it, politely noting that I every member is vital in developing a more efficient
might be trying too hard to be convincing. After taking framework that will better serve our Society.
a step back and reevaluating my original article, I If you have ever wondered why we do something
recognized that she was right — as is usually the case. or why we do not do something, now is the time to
I was attempting to ‘sell’ the need for revision of our voice your opinion. You might think you are the only

governing documents by focusing on the amount of one with a specific viewpoint, but there may be others
time we would save at conventions without the constant who feel the same way and are hesitant to speak up.
review of amendments. In reality, the focus should be To ensure that DKG remains relevant and aligned with
on our need for simplicity and the opportunity we have our mission, it is essential for every member to find the
to shape our future. value in their voice.
We have a remarkable chance to mold our future by By actively examining the governing documents to
starting from a blank page with our revision. To assist identify areas for improvement, we See PRES p. 3

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