The Graphic Artists Guild Convention 2002, Philadelphia, October 24-26: Once a year, the Guild National Board executive committee, chapter presidents, and chapter reps gather for three days to sculpt our organization's policies and strategies. And before I get too far, I need to point out that our leadership is a collection of extraordinarily giving, productive, determined and passionate people. Quite a powerhouse.

As usual, we start out with something of a love fest, as people greet familiar faces from meetings past and are introduced to eager rookies ready to support and contribute. Philadelphia provided beautiful and interesting sights to visit, great food, and friendly people. A very upbeat beginning.
But it wasn't long before we were briefed on the realities and difficulties this year has brought the Guild.

Mark Monlux, Scott Bakal, Lloyd Dangle & John Schmeizer enjoying Philadelphia

There was something of a collective gasp as we learned of unexpected drops in membership and major budget shortfalls. When it appeared that shock and rigor mortis were about to overtake the Board, we were rescued with optimism from this year's many successes: impressive work of the Advocacy, Branding, C4I, Guild Handbook, and Ways & Means committees, in addition to Chapter activity. Lloyd didn't mince words about the seriousness of the uphill battle, but kept us all in the game by placing the positive achievements and possibilities in the forefront.

Palpable determination was in the air as the group worked together throughout our meetings to create and implement solutions to our most pressing needs. Given our commitment to create the leanest, tightest budget possible, it was tough work. Small, productive conferences among chapter presidents and interdependent committees sprung up in hallways, corners, meeting rooms, and at lunches and dinners. The work was ongoing. A bleary eyed quorum (with memories of the previous night's 4 AM fire-alarm disruption echoing through their sleep-deprived subconscious) pulled various ideas together into official motions that address our top priorities.

Chuck Schultz, Lauri Barum & Jeanne de la Houssaye in a problem solving session.

The Board was beginning to see the light at the end of the annual meeting tunnel: a new sponsorship committee assembled, certain to garner new revenue; reconvening the Guild Foundation board to access more avenues of fundraising; an exciting branding proposal on track and set at the highest priority; continued influx of new leaders; longtime leaders sticking with it; and phenomenal staff at the International Office. (The Board decided to change all references to the Guild's status from "National" to "International" to reflect the true nature of our membership we're everywhere!)

The meeting adjourned with warm applause but no fanfare. With the budget still unresolved, there was a feeling of unfinished business, even though there was fairly uniform agreement on the priorities at hand. All were aware of how great a task the committees will have on their plates when they convene.

The Ways n' Means brainstorming group, including Scott Bakal, Molly Knappen & Mark Monlux.

Meeting members began to shrug off the burdens of their smart goals, motions, and parliamentary procedures and joined in the many Conference seminars and presentations arranged by the Philadelphia Chapter. True to form, the Guild provided useful, real-life, and well-presented education. Small discussions continued as members deliberated over the excitement of the branding presentation and brainstormed member-building events, sponsorship issues, or revenue options.

Colleen Connery, Julie Atallah & Jen Singh enjoying the Awards Dinner.

The closing ceremonies and awards dinner roused our weary crew. Delicious food for our bellies and the warmth of a positive focus from Lloyd prepared us for a stirring speech by National Writers Union President Jonathan Tasini. The cry for solidarity had barely faded from our ears when the awards began. Honoring these most active members reminds us of the noble cause for which we pull together. We smile at the recognition of ourselves as people who devote their time and energy to help others. And the Guild mission is worthy of all this fuss.

The festivities inspired our intrepid cast to dance, commiserate, and play. Friendships, alliances, and many warm hugs were exchanged before folks boarded their planes, trains, and automobiles for home. There's much hard work in store for each and every one of us. But we're up for the charge, with a cause that's worth the effort. Thank you all for sharing yourselves! And for those who haven't yet jumped into the fray of active participation, I guarantee you'll love it, particularly if you like roller coasters.