As we end our fiscal year with the Club’s signature event, The Jersey Awards, I can’t help but reflect on my first year as president. It’s been challenging, it’s been frustrating and it’s been rewarding.

I came into the position on the heels of the passing of our immediate past president, and I was concerned about the transition. Would I or could I live up to the memory of Pat Tesman? Since I haven’t seen any placards with the word “impeachment” on them, I guess I’ve done a pretty good job. And the Pat Tesman Educational Achievement Fund, started last year, is on its way to meeting its goals, due to generous donations from both Career Day and the Hall of Fame.

I won’t review the events presented during the last 12 months, but overall it was a pretty good year for the Club. Needless to say, some events were huge successes while others were not. The point being, we said we’d present better programs and events, and I know we did. There was enthusiasm and excitement, which indicates that the association is headed in the right direction.

Refreshing resource for all
I mentioned “challenging,” because it’s been a difficult task to cultivate new talent and attract younger members for the board and for committee work.
In order to offer new and refreshing programs, we need their input. The Ad Club should be a very valuable and beneficial resource to all. Please be an ambassador for the club and get your junior executives involved. We’ll all benefit in the end.

I said “frustrating” because when you offer good programming and the membership doesn’t attend, you want to kick yourself in the pants. Hopefully, you noticed that we’ve joined forces with other associations on almost every program we presented. These nine groups (NJ ADCLUB, BMA, MCA-I, CCM, PRSA, ADCNJ, IABC, MENG and CC-I) call themselves MARCOM, which stands for marketing and communications. Joining forces to co-sponsor events has ensured attendance at events as well as positive financial results. Look for another successful summer networking event on July 13 at the Mansion at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison. For more information about future events, check out the calendar listing on BOSS Staffing’s Creative Connects website. We support all the quality events our sister groups present.

I mentioned “rewarding” because on a personal level it’s been a growth experience for me. I no longer get nervous speaking in front of large crowds. Thank you for the attention and the respect you have afforded me. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to serve this membership.

A tip of the hat to our sponsors
I would be remiss not recognizing our sponsors, without whom we couldn’t have survived. A big debt of thanks to: BOSS Staffing, The NJ Press Association, The Harold L. Harrison Educational Fund and The North Jersey Media Group. And, yes, we have a billboard recognizing May as Marketing and Communications Month. Thank you, ClearChannel Outdoor.

Lastly, congratulations to all of the winners in tonight’s Jersey Awards. You are the best that New Jersey has to offer.

Gary Denburg

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