Board minutes for 2009 are listed below by date.  Board minutes from recent years are listed below:
2009

2008
2007
2006 

Board meeting date
January 13, 2010 - PDF Version
February 9, 2010 - PDF Version
March 9, 2010 - PDF Version
April 13, 2010 - PDF Version
May 11, 2010 - PDF Version
June 8, 2010 - PDF Version
July 13, 2010 - PDF Version
August 10, 2010 - PDF Version

ECD Minutes
January 13, 2010
Attendance: Joe Gollehon, APR, Jennifer Day, APR, Karen Stiffler, APR, Denise Clark, APR, Michelle Lantz, APR, Jeff Worden, APR; Chapter Presidents George Manahan (West Virginia), Susan Lancho (Thoroughbred), Jamaison Schuler (Hoosier), Elizabeth Long (Dayton), Tom Duke, APR, Fellow PRSA (Akron), Amy Kowal (Pittsburgh), and Candice Belliterra & Melissa Yahre from national staff.
Excused: Jim Tabaczynski, Jeanette Drake, PhD, APR, Fellow PRSA, Mike Hesse, PhD, APR, Diane Slaughter, APR, Fellow PRSA (ECD district administrator).

Chair Gollehon opened the meeting at 9:07 a.m. District board calls are changed to the 2^nd Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. This may need to change due to schedule conflicts with two elected board members. The new call in number is: 888-604-4215, access code: 5603423# (must use pound after).

Gollehon thanked Past-Chairs Lantz and Greer-Ullrich for their district service.
Minutes from December were approved by consensus.
Treasury Report: Chair-Elect Day presented the financials for December and 2009 year-end. Due to excellent leadership, planning and budgeting at the beginning of 2009, the ECD stayed on track financially as we move into 2010. Total income was down 10% over 2008, but expenses were in check and ECD ended the year in the black with revenue of $672.27. The ECD ended 2009 with $5,552.78 in the checking account and a total of $6,100.10 in two CDs, providing us with assets of $11,652.88.
    Discussion ensued regarding holding one year’s worth of budget in reserve and using some of the additional reserve funds for chapter/member value and services. Ideas include scholarship reimbursement for successful APR candidates, travel budget for speakers, etc. Board members will seek input from chapters and present a plan in February prior to a 2010 budget approval.
Board Member Worden requested we wait until February to accept the report so he can confirm the Diamond Awards financials through last year’s awards chair.
QuickStart : The date is set for Friday evening and Saturday, Sept. 24 and 25 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Perrysburg , OH , outside of Toledo . The location will alternate between Toledo and Columbus to accommodate the chapters furthest away. All chapter board members are encouraged to attend this year.
Mini-Leadership Training Workshops: Lantz mentioned the district compiled five leadership training workshops that can be delivered to chapter boards as a member service. These 10-minute sessions are targeted for newer or younger board members but are valuable for all leaders because of the topics, such as “Reading Financials.”
Strategic Planning: Lantz stated the ECD can assist chapters during their strategic planning processes as a member service. Contact the district to schedule a facilitator.
District Nominating Committee: The committee received more nominations than open positions, so they chose qualified applicants from chapters that have not recently been represented on the district board.  Interested people are encouraged to talk with Chair-Elect Day about nominations for fall 2010.
Chapter Speakers: District board members are available for speaking engagements at chapter meetings. Individual topics are listed on the website
Awards:
Diamond Awards – Recognizes campaigns and tactics. Cycle begins in August.
Platinum Award – Recognizes an individual member who has demonstrated stellar service at the district or national level. Nominations are requested in summer.
Chapter Excellence Awards – Recognizes outstanding chapter programming, planning, membership growth, etc. Cycle begins in spring.
National Updates
New Issues and Trends e-mail. Each day of the week has a different focus so there’s only one email per day. Eg: Monday: Career. Thursday: Membership Focus with a chapter spotlight.
E-Groups/Leaderserve – this section of the website is down right now, but is scheduled to be on-line at the end of January
District and Chapter Leader Tools – look in My Groups for many leadership tools, including officer handbooks for chapters and districts
Templates for chapter websites will be worked on in 2010.
Leadership Rally: June 4 & 5 at New York Marriott Downtown. Group hotel rate is $199 + tax.
Twitter Account: Candice created a Twitter account: @prsachapters
Potential New Chapter in ECD: Erie , PA , which would be called Northwestern Pennsylvania . This is being presented to the national board at their next meeting.  Approval could come by the end of the month.  

Chapter Visit Assignments by ECD Board Members - District members will represent their home chapters and one other chapter. Tentative assignments are:

2010 LIAISONS BY CHAPTER (Tentative)

Akron : Jim Tabaczynski
Greater Cleveland:  Jim Tabaczynski (home chapter)
Bluegrass (Louisville): Joe Gollehon
Central Michigan (Lansing): Michelle Lantz (home chapter)
Central Ohio (Columbus): Denise Clark (home)
Cincinnati: Denise Clark
Dayton: Jennifer Day
Detroit: Jennifer Day (home chapter)   
Hoosier: Karen Stiffler
Northwest Ohio: Jeanette Drake (home chapter)
Pittsburgh: Jeff Worden (home chapter)
Thoroughbred: Mike Hesse (home chapter)
West Michigan (Grand Rapids): Michelle Lantz
West Virginia: Joe Gollehon (home chapter)
White Pine (Midland/BayCity/Saginaw): Karen Stiffer (home chapter)
New Business:  A request was made to Chair Gollehon for all chapters to have a voting representative on the ECD board since they all pay dues. The current bylaws indicate only elected board members can vote while chapter presidents are non-voting members. Pros and cons were discussed. Lantz suggested the board research this further and survey chapters on this topic before deciding on a new model.
     The district expressed its condolences to Administrator Slaughter on the passing of her mother.
     Meeting adjourned 10:06 a.m.

Submitted by
Michelle Lantz, APR  


ECD Minutes
February 9, 2010

In Attendance: Karen Stiffler, Candice Belliterra, Denise Baker, Jameson Schuller (Hoosier chapter), Jannette Drake, George Manahan (West Virginia chapter), Joe Gollehon, Diane Slaughter, Jim Tabaczynski.
Excused: Mike Hesse, Jennifer Day
Absent:  Jeff Worden
Call to order: 11:02 a.m.
Joe thanked everyone for attending and noted that many people had other commitments so the meeting would be conducted as efficiently as possible.
Minutes:
There were no changes. The January minutes were approved by consensus.
Financial Report:
East Central District had limited financial activity in the month of January, which is consistent with past years. The District had no income in January. Expenses totaled $765 which consisted of District management fees and a conference facility deposit for the 2010 Quick Start Conference in Toledo, Ohio. We are at 12.06% of the total ECD budget for the year.  
CDs
Joe brought up the fact that the District has money in CDs. He would like to explore the idea of using some of that money to benefit the chapters as part of their membership. As the District makes money in coming years, that would go into the fund for this purpose. The key is to also leave some money in reserves. Joe asked that Karen chair a subcommittee to determine how this could be accomplished. Karen accepted. Jeannette Drake, Denise Clark and George Manahan (West Virginia president) volunteered.
Budget
The District is looking at a $300 deficit for 2010 because it is not receiving as much from the Diamond Awards as in previous years. The Diamond awards have gone down to $925. In past years it was not unusual to project a deficit and have it not come to pass. Based on that and other areas where we can be careful with money, Joe thinks the District can make up the $300 difference during the course of the year. It was also pointed out that if more people order duplicate awards we would see an increase in revenue. A vote was taken on the budget. Jim moved to approve budget as it, Karen seconded. Budget passed as presented.
Quick Start:
A down payment on facility has been made. The Toledo chapter will help with social event. The facility is in an outdoor mall area with lots of opportunities for the social event.
Mini leadership Modules:
No update.
Chapter Excellence award:
A reminder email was issued to current chapter presidents. However, it was noted that location of Quick Start wasn’t changed on that e-mail. It will be changed in another e-mail before the printed piece goes out at end of month. The deadline for entries is April first.
District Nominating Committee:
No report.
ECD Member Recognition on Web Site:
If there are people honored in the local chapters or their communities, please let Diane know so they can also be honored on the Web site. Generally, the District recognizes new APRs and Fellows.
Platinum Award:
Even though it is a little early, the District will put information on social sites (via Jim) and on the ECD web site in the next month. The deadline for submissions is in August.
Speaker’s Bureau:
Many board members have already submitted their speaking topics. If there is a board member who hasn’t, please do so. Also, board members need to provide Diane with a picture.
Social Media:
Chapter leaders and board members are encouraged to sign up for ECD’s social media.
Affinity calls:
These need to get scheduled for this year. It was noted that, new this year, participants will need to pay their own long-distance charges.
Best Practices Uploaded to Web Site:
This is complete. Excellence award winners from last year have been uploaded
Liaison Visits:
Board members need to make contact with their chapter(s) in first quarter. A list of board members and the chapters they will be visiting can be found on the ECD Web site.
ECD Chair Contacts:
Joe will contact all chapters during second quarter.
360 Review:
It was decided that the survey would take place this year between the end of August beginning of September. The questions will be distributed to board members before the next meeting.
National Updates:
At the end of week, PRSA will launch new e-groups (accessed through MyPRSA). National will send out a communication when the groups are live. Also, there will be a leadership call on February 25 at 4 EST. National is inviting chapter and district leaders to join a large conference call to discuss tools and resources national offers and give people time to offer best practices as well as address questions and concerns.
Leadership Rally:
The Leadership Rally will take place June 4 and 5 at the New York Marriott downtown. National offers $550 stipend to each chapter for one attendee. There is a $199 plus tax group room rate and rooms can be reserved now. The conference will start early on Friday morning and end mid-afternoon on Saturday.
Old business:
Tom Duke from Akron chapter raised the question via email to Joe. Can chapter presidents serve as a voting member on the ECD board? Joe feels Tom’s argument is valid – if the chapters are paying dues, they should have a vote on the board. On last month’s district council conference call, Joe raised this issue. There are several districts that allow chapters to vote. If ECD is to do this, the bylaws will have to be changed and the District will need to be aware of quorum. Joe proposed that a subcommittee, chaired by Michelle, look into this and provide the board with recommendations such as what language we would need to include in the bylaws. Jennifer Day will serve on this committee and Tom Duke will be asked to serve. The board did not have any questions so Joe appointed committee. Joe asked for feedback and recommendations no later than the May meeting.
Chapter Presidents:
Chapter presidents were given time to report, ask questions and give feedback. George reported that the West Virginia chapter held first coffee club meeting. This meeting lasted an hour and featured an individual who coordinates a state-wide campaign to talk about tactics and implementation of campaign. There were about nine people in attendance, which allowed for great discussion. The speaker even left with some great ideas from the members. This provided give and take and discussion that cannot be done at a monthly luncheon. Feedback already indicates that they need to do more of these – probably will be done bi-monthly.
     Jamaison reported that the Hoosier chapter is doing something unique on March 10^th. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is doing a presentation about the business case for PR. They are doing a half-day workshop. This is taking place on a normal lunch meeting day so the workshop will end with luncheon. This is aimed at business leaders to help them understand the value of PR.  Chamber is hoping about 100 attendees. The chapter is hoping for 200 for lunch.
Meeting Adjourned:  11:30 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Baker
ECD Secretary

March 9, 2010, PRSA ECD Board Call

In attendance: Denise Clark, Jannette Drake, Sara Hibner (Dayton), Steve Iseman, Michelle Lantz, Tony Peyronel (NW PA chapter), Diane Slaughter, Karen Stifler, Jim Tabaczynski, Jeff Worden, Candice Belliterra(National).
Excused Absences: Jennifer Day, Joe Gollenhon, Michael Hesse
Call to order: Michelle Lantz called the meeting to order at 11:03 a.m.
Minutes: There were no changes. The February minutes were approved by consensus.
Financial Report: The monthly financial report was sent out to each board member prior to the meeting. Treasurer Stiffler provided the following report:  there was limited activity in the month of February 2010.  February income of $3.32 was generated from account interest. Expenses were $265 for district administration.  As of the February 28, 2010, there was $3,508.28 available in the checking account and $6,104.91in the two CDs for a total accounting of assets of $9,613.19.  We have expended 16% of our budget as expected. Also, the District’s 2009 tax return has been filed and accepted on March 5, 2010 by the Internal Revenue Service.).
     The subcommittee to develop ideas on how some of the East Central District’s CDs may be used to benefit the chapters is arranging a meeting for March.
Announcements:
The East Central District Board welcomed Steve Iseman who was been appointed to the national PRSA board and is the representative from East Central District.
     ECD has a new chapter – Northwest Pennsylvania. Chapter president Anthony Peyronel gave a brief overview of the chapter. This chapter was previously affiliated with PRSA through the Pittsburgh chapter. Since the majority of members are from the East Central District area, it made more sense to affiliate with ECD.
     ECD has lost John Wiater, APR, Fellow PRSA, a member of the West Virginia Chapter who practiced in Pittsburgh before moving to West Virginia.
Chapter Leadership Development
Quick Start:
No updates. Reminder – the event will be on Saturday, September 25, at the Hilton Gardens Inn in Perrysburg, OH.
Training Modules:
No requests for training from any of the chapters.
Strategic Planning:
No requests for strategic planning assistance from any of the chapters.
Chapter Excellence Award:
Information packets have been put together and will be mailed end of week. The deadline date has been moved to April 15.
Encourage Leadership Continuum
District Nominating Committee:
Won’t have anything to report until closer to fall.
ECD Member Recognition on Web Site:
Nothing to report.
National Nominating Committee:
First meeting was held earlier this week. Jennifer Day is managing this project.
Platinum Award:
Nominations due August 18. Information was sent to Jim this morning for inclusion on different social media sites.
Build Stronger ECD Chapters
Speakers’ Bureau:
District officers are available to come to chapters to speak. Expertise is listed on district web site. For District board members, please send topics to Diane if you have not already done so.
Provide Vehicle for Major Speaker:
Update will be provided next month.
Social Media:
Will add information about Platinum Award to sites. Also will add announcement about Steve Iseman serving on National PRSA Board.
Diamond Awards:
Nothing new to report except that we do have judges for this year. Currently wrapping up previous season.
Foster Knowledge Sharing
Affinity Calls:
Update will be provided next month.
Best practices:
This is an ongoing project. Chapters can submit best practices.
Social Media:
Already covered.
Reach all ECD Chapters
Liaison Visits:
ECD wants to have touch point with all district chapters at least once a quarter. Each board member should introduce themselves (or re-acquaint themselves) and try to schedule visit. These visits are to determine if thee is any in potential trouble? Do any chapters need help from districts/nationals. Michelle has spoken to the West Michigan chapter and is set to go there April7th. Jim has been to Akron twice – once in December and again in January.
Chair Contacts:
This happens during second quarter.
Third Quarter Liaison Visits:
This would be a good time to remind chapters of Quick Start. Fourth quarter contacts are usually completed via assembly and Quick Start.
End-of-Year Report:
Goes to all chapters.
Indicators of success
360 Review
Nothing new to report.
National Updates:
Last week was the first orientation call for year, which went very well. This call is to bring together chapter leaders from all over the country. National gives updates and provides a forum for idea sharing. A post-call survey was conducted and showed that people were pleased with this call. National is looking to do this call quarterly. This call was recorded (please e-mail Candice if you want the dial-in information). The PowerPoint is posted on the leadership toolkit page under my PRSA. Candice can also e-mail interested parties the PowerPoint. The Leadership Rally is June 4 and 5. Attendees can take advantage of a group rate at the Marriott downtown. Also, National will be launching a leadership web page that will house all relevant documents. National is also looking for chapter spotlights for issues and trends Thursday edition. This spotlight will highlight districts as well. Email Candice with suggestions. It was suggested that the Western Michigan APR study class/series of programs is utilizing unique ways to market itself and should be a future spotlight.
Policies and Procedures:
Work continues on one policy regarding boards of directors and new legislation and what boards should do shouldn’t do. Will keep looking at this year.
Unfinished Business:
Subcommittee continues to work on the chapter president voting issue.
New business:
None.
Adjourn: 11:31

Respectfully submitted,
Denise Clark
ECD Secretary 

April 13, 2010
In attendance:
Joe Gollehon, Karen Stiffler, Denise Clark, Michelle Lantz, Mike Hesse, Jim Tabaczynski, Sarah Hibner (Dayton chapter), George Manahan (WV chapter), Candice Bellittera, Hallie Sampson and Diane Slaughter.
Excused Absences:
Jennifer Day
Call to order:
11:06 a.m.
Minutes:
There were no changes. The March minutes were approved by consensus.
Financial Report:
Treasurer Stiffler provided the following report:  March income of $6.12 was generated from account interest. March expenses were $265.00 for administration. Year to date expenses are $1,295.00. Financial report accepted by consensus.
Chapter Leadership Development
QuickStart:
No updates. Reminder – the event will be on Saturday, September 25, at the Hilton Gardens Inn in Perrysburg, OH.
Training Modules:
No requests for training from any of the chapters.
Strategic Planning:
No requests for strategic planning assistance from any of the chapters.
Chapter Excellence Award:
Information packets sent recently. The deadline date (postmarked by) has been moved to April 30.
Encourage Leadership Continuum
District Nominating Committee:
Nothing to report until closer to fall.
ECD Member Recognition on Web Site:
Dr. Steve Iseman has been recognized as a new National board member on the ECD Web site. Candice will send Diane list of anyone within the district who is on a national committee.
National Nominating Committee:
First meeting was held earlier this week. Jennifer Day is managing this project.
Platinum Award:
Updated info sent to Diane to be included on Web site. Jim has info for faceboook and Twitter. Nominations due August 18.
Build Stronger ECD Chapters
Speaker’s Bureau:
District officers are available to come to chapters to speak. Expertise is listed on district web site. For District board members, please send topics to Diane if you have not already done so. No chapter requests at this point.
Provide Vehicle for Major Speaker:
Update will be provided next month.
Social Media/Web site:
Will add information about Platinum Award to sites. Also will add announcement about Steve Iseman serving on National PRSA Board. Web site map will be updated to include Western PA chapter. People are beginning to use the ECD LinkedIn account for announcements.
Diamond Awards:
Nothing new to report except that we do have judges for this year. Currently wrapping up previous season. Robert Reeds of the Bluegrass chapter is doing a great job pulling this together and are looking at deadlines similar to last year. They should be ready to announce very shortly.
Foster Knowledge Sharing
Affinity Calls:
Update will be provided next month.
Best practices:
This is an ongoing project. Chapters can submit best practices. These are taken from chapter excellence awards. 2009 have been posted.
Social Media:
Already covered. ECD needs to encourage people to use as well as encouraging chapters to encourage their boards to use. This has tremendous potential. Discussion was held regarding adding social media links to Web site. Mike and Denise will work with Diane to do this.
Reach all ECD Chapters
Liaison Visits:
Jim going to northwest PA tomorrow. He will go to Cleveland soon and Akron in fall. Scheduling a meeting with the Bluegrass chapter is getting difficult with Derby coming up. Denise will visit Cincinnati and Columbus next month. Mike is visiting his chapter in May. Michelle has already visited central Michigan and is visiting West Michigan in May. Reminder – reports need to go to Diane and Candice.
Chair Contacts:
This process has started and will continue through this quarter.
Third Quarter Liaison Visits:
This would be a good time to remind chapters of QuickStart. Fourth quarter contacts are usually completed via assembly and QuickStart.
End-of-Year Report:
Goes to all chapters.
Indicators of success
360 Review
Nothing new to report.
National Updates:
The chapter/district tax filing deadline is May 15th and can be filed using the e-postcard. Lnk in Melissa’s e-mail. Any questions, contact Candice. Please send Candice an email confirmation that you have filed.
Leadership Rally – trying to encourage registration right now. There is a leadership rally web page accessible through MyPRSA online. Group rate deadline for hotel room is May 15th offering $199 a night. The finalized meeting agenda will be posted when available. The meeting starts on June 4 at 8:30 through 5 and again on Saturday at 8:30 but ends around 2:30 or 3:00.
Diversity Committee. If your chapter or district is doing anything around diversity, please e-mail Candice an overview complete with goals, objectives and outcomes of program. These could be highlighted in blog or podcasts.
     April is Accreditation month. There is an srticle in Tatics about this.
     Joe discussed a request he received from Susan Barnes of the PRSA Foundation. They are putting together chapter scholarship tool kit and trying to roll this out at Leadership Rally. They are requesting samples of scholarship applications, ideas for marketing, etc.
Policies and Procedures:
No update at this time.
Unfinished Business:
Finance Subcommittee: The Finance Subcommittee met on March 25th to take a look at where the current CDs are. We have a little over $6,000 in both CDs. The committee decided that the program funding should be $3,000 as we don’t want to clear out both the CDs. The committee brainstormed ideas around what we currently do offer – we offer so many benefits compared to other districts. Ideas for the use of these funds include: offering discount for PRSA merchandise services, training, guest speaking gifts, financial assistance to help send more people to Quick Start, financial assistance for job banks (tapping into Nationals own job bank). George came up with the idea of a matching grant program to let chapters decide how to use matching grants. The committee decided to put together survey about major obstacle – membership, programming, recruitment. The survey is 8 – 10 questions and will be issued May 1. Then the committee will determine next steps. The subcommittee wants all chapters to benefit. Denise will send the survey link to Board for review on Thursday. The subcommittee will reconvene in mid-June to review results.
Chapter Presidents and ECD Voting: All chapter presidents are ECD board members but they are not voting members. The question was raised as to whether or not they should vote since they are dues-paying members. (Please note: currently presidents don’t count in quorum for voting purposes. Quorum only comes from elected board members.) It makes sense for voting on dues increases and those items that directly affect chapter finances. Other, more regular routine voting (such as approval of minutes or changes to Diamond Awards, for example) will not need the vote of the presidents. We are trying to model a bit after the new National bylaws. The committee has talked with a number of chapter presidents who, so far, seem to like this concept. If anyone has additional thoughts, please e-mail them to Michelle. Allowing presidents to vote should encourage more interaction with board. The question was raised as to how many chapter presidents will we need for voting/quorum purposes. Nine would be needed for a simple majority. It was also suggested that we might want to include a question or two on the survey regarding this effort and to prep the chapter presidents for what is coming. Michelle will send survey questions to Denise.
     It was suggested that a discussion be held regarding this topic at the May meeting and vote in June. Michelle believes we may have exhausted the need for discussion. Joe pointed out that on a recent district council call this issue was raised about president voting. Jim pointed out that we would have the option to table a vote in May if something significant comes up.
Chapter communications: George suggested that at certain intervals we provide speaking points for chapter presidents to announce at their meetings. It might help ECD in getting information out to the chapters. Diane pointed out that all chapter presidents already receive monthly minutes/updates. Jim offered to send the speaking points to his list. Denise suggested that since she is already preparing the minutes, she can easily prepare the speaking points and send to Jim.
New business:
None.
Adjourn: 11:50
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Clark
ECD Secretary

May 11, 2010
PRSA ECD Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

In attendance:
ECD Chair Joe Gollehon, Secretary Denise Clark, Past Chair Michelle Lantz, Director Jim Tabaczynski, Administrator Diane Slaughter, Akron Chapter President Tom Duke, PRSA Board Member Steve Iseman and PRSA staff member Candice Belitterra.
Excused Absences:
Chair-elect Jennifer Day and Treasurer Karen Stiffler.
Call to order: 11:04 a.m. by Gollehon. Due to the fact that there was no quorum for the May monthly meeting, all decisions and discussions requiring decisions were postponed until the June meeting.
Financial Report:
Treasurer Stiffler provided the following report: no income in April 2010. April expenses were $265 for district administration fee. Since January 2010, $1,550.89 has been paid out in expenses for QuickStart deposit fees and District administration fees.  Currently, $2980.03 is available in the ECD checking account and $6,108.95 in the two Certificates of Deposit for a total accounting of assets of $9,088.98. We have expended 24.6% of our budget.  
     Slaughter reported that ECD has received a check for $975.58 from Bluegrass chapter for Diamond Awards. This represents our 40 percent share of this program and is $50.58 above budget.
Chapter Excellence Awards:  Four chapters have submitted entries this year, which is down from last year.
Affinity Calls:  Gollehon has started affinity calls.
National Updates:

• Leadership Rally – Deadline is Wednesday, May 12th, to make hotel reservations.
• Tax Filing – Deadline is this week, May 15. File on the IRS Web site.
• This week’s Issues and Trends – the Diversity Committee is interested in anything chapters are doing to promote or foster diversity. Please let Candice know of anything. There is also a Diversity Today blog on the PSA Web site.
• Nationals is hoping that chapters will appoint a foundation ambassador to work with the foundation to achieve its goals.

Steve Iseman mentioned a petition being circulated to remove the APR designation as a requirement for leadership positions.
Policies and Procedures:
There was discussion around the lack of quorum. It was suggested that the Policies and Procedures could be changed so that whoever shows up for the conference call makes a quorum. Michelle volunteered to look into this as she looks at ECD’s Policies and Procedures. It was suggested that this could center power around one small group of people. It was also suggested that such a change should be reflected in the District’s bylaws. There was then discussion on if the District has bylaws and, if so, where do they reside. Michelle volunteered to have a report on this for the June meeting.
New Business
Slaughter will issue the chapter voluntary contribution notices next week. Lantz suggested that Gollehon take a look at the letter Lantz sent last year, as he might want to tweak and sign it for this year. Gollehon will review it later this week.
Adjourn: 11:20
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Clark
ECD Secretary

June 8, 2010 PRSA ECD Board Call

In attendance:
ECD Chair Joe Gollehon, Treasurer Karen Stiffler, Director Jeanette Drake, Administrator Diane Slaughter, Detroit Chapter President Rich Donley. Northwest Pennsylvania Chapter President Tony Peyronel, PRSA Board Member Steve Iseman and PRSA staff member Candice Belitterra.
Excused Absences:
Chair-elect Jennifer Day, Secretary Denise Clark and Immediate Past Chair Michelle Lantz.
Call to order: 11:04 a.m. by Gollehon.
Minutes:
It was noted by Slaughter that Drake should have been listed as an excused absence for the May meeting. Drake moved and Stiffler seconded that the minutes be accepted as amended. Motion carried.
Financial Report:
Stiffler provided the following report: income of $975.58 in May from Diamond Awards, expenses of $265 for district administration fee. Total assets stand at $9802.40, including $6111.01 in CDs and $3691.39 in checking. Expenses are at 28% of budget. Dues notices have been sent to all chapters. Drake moved and Peyronel seconded that the treasurer’s report be accepted as information.
QuickStart:
Day sent word that she is working on the agenda. Hotel reservations can now be made for the September 25 meeting in Perrysburg.
Platinum Award:
Nominations are due August 18.Four chapters have submitted entries this year, which is down from last year. No nominations have been received yet, and Stiffler will send a nomination reminder to chapter presidents later this month.
Diamond Awards:
Slaughter reports we’re waiting on the chapter for follow-up action for the current year awards program.
Chapter Visits:
Stiffler is doing two visits this summer, as is Drake, who said the Northwest Ohio Chapter favors the chapter matching grant program. Gollehon will visit two chapters this summer and plans to visit Northwest Pennsylvania, as well. Peyronel said Director Jim Tabaczynski visited in April and provided helpful information.
Policies and Procedures Manual:
Gollehon said he, Lantz and Day are reviewing the current document and drafting changes for review during the July conference call. Chapter presidents’ voting rights will be covered under these revisions.
Subcommittee on Chapter Funding:
Stiffler reported on the group’s previous work and said Secretary Denise Clark will have the survey prepared this month to include feedback on options for possible funding mechanisms for chapters. Gollehon said the Northwest District provides a $100 scholarship to APR graduates, and said this may be an option for committee consideration.
National Updates
Belitterra reported that the Leadership Rally went very well. Rally sessions will be posted online shortly. She said the first Assembly Delegate conference call will be held Wednesday, June 9.
Adjourn: 
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:27 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Diane Slaughter, CAE, APR, Fellow PRSA
Administrator

July 13, 2010 PRSA ECD Board Call

In attendance: ECD Chair Joe Gollehon, APR; ECD Treasurer Karen Stiffler, APR; ECD Secretary Denise Clark; ECD Past Chair Michelle Lantz, APR; ECD Directors Dr. Jeanette Drake, Jim Tabaczynski and Jeff Worden, APR; Akron Chapter President Tom Duke; West Virginia Chapter President George Manahan; PRSA Board Member Steve Iseman, Ph.D. APR; PRSA staff member Candice Bellitterra; and ECD Administrator Diane Slaughter, CAE, APR, Fellow PRSA.
Excused Absences: ECD Chair-elect Jennifer Day, APR and ECD Director Michael Hesse, Ph.D., APR.
Call to order: Chair Gollehon called the meeting to order at 11:03 a.m.
Minutes: Minutes of the June meeting were accepted by consensus.
Financial Report:
Treasurer Stiffler provided the following report:  District income for the month of June totaled $2,364 from Chapter dues.  Expenses totaled $265 for district administration fees.  Current total checking account contains $5,791.12.  The two district CDs total $6,113.14 and district assets stand at $11,904.26.  We have spent 33% of our budget.  Dues notices have been sent to all chapters.  Thus far, ECD has received chapter dues from Central Ohio, Hoosier, Akron, Northwest Ohio, Greater Cleveland, Dayton/Miami Valley ($1 per member due to financial constraints), Detroit and White Pine. As of June 30, 2010, chapter dues have not been received by the following chapters:  Central Michigan, Bluegrass, Thoroughbred, and West Michigan. West Virginia, Pittsburgh, Northwest Pennsylvania and Cincinnati. ECD board members should follow-up with their respective chapters concerning paying chapter dues.
Second dues notices have been mailed. Board members need to follow-up with their respective chapters.
Michelle Lantz moved to accept the financial report and Tom Duke was the second. Financial report was approved.
Chapter Leadership Development
QuickStart: The agenda is fairly similar to last year with networking and dinner on Friday night. Dinner is not covered by the QuickStart registration fee. The event starts on Saturday at 8 a.m. Is there anything that needs to be adjusted on the agenda? Should there be a social media presentation specifically around how a chapter uses social media to keep in touch with members. Tom Duke mentioned that the Akron chapter just instituted a social media program with Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Tom suggested that Eric Anapenberger, the chapter member who oversaw that effort, could share his experience. Jeannette Drake suggested Sage Lewis as an addition to a chapter member to offer an overview.
QuickStart always offers a national PRSA overview. QuickStart attendees should know that this session is very different from the National session. QuickStart is a hands-on preparation which lays the groundwork for their year. When participants leave QuickStart, they will actually have a plan on paper to help them get their year started. In addition to idea sharing, participants also have the opportunity for networking and learning the faces of those in the geographic area. This face-to-face contact has become very important in the age of digital communications. Presidents please encourage your president-elects to participate in QuickStart. If chapters want to send other representatives, please feel free to send them.
This is also the 10th anniversary of the PRSA Code of Ethics. A suggestion was made to include the code of ethics on the agenda.
Jennifer has entitled this year’s QuickStart "Stepping up to the Plate" in honor of the Mud Hens.
Mini-Leadership Training Modules
No requests at this time.
Chapter Strategic Planning Facilitation
No requests at this time.
Chapter Excellence Awards
New Northwest PA chapter leadership is judging the entries. This is a good way for this new chapter to get best practice overviews. Jim has sent Diane the entry fee checks.
Encourage Leadership Continuum
District Nominating Committee
Nothing at this time.
ECD Member Recognition on Website
Thanks to Candice, we have information on the new leadership team and committee chairs. This information has been posted to the front page of the website.
National Nominating Committee
Nothing at this time.
Platinum Award (Durocher)
Nominations are due by August 18th. Please really talk this up with your chapter presidents. We didn’t have any nominations last year. Application can be found on the ECD website. Diane will send reminder.
Build Stronger ECD Chapters
Speakers Bureau
No requests at this time.
Faebook, LinkedIn, Website
Nothing at this time.
Diamond Awards
In early September, the Bluegrass Chapter should have the award entries from Inland Empire for reciprocal judging. The deadlines for the Diamond Award entries are: early bird September 17 and regular deadline September 24. ECD needs to utilize social media for promoting this effort.
Foster Knowledge Sharing
Best practices uploaded to website
Get these from Chapter Excellence awards.
Reach all ECD chapters
ECD Chair Contacts – 2nd quarter
Hopefully everyone is in the middle of making their Chapter visits. If there are any problems please let Jim know.
Indicator of Success
360 Review
Delete questions 9 and 10.
National Updates

· Another Assembly call scheduled on governance issues: two calls on Wednesday August 18 – 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Communications will be sent with details.
· There is a survey going on right now regarding public relations in education. This information will be developed into a white paper.
· Idea swap conference call is scheduled for July 23 at 3:00 – topic is finances, budgeting. These calls will take place every month on different topics. Chapter and Districts leaders are invited to participate in this open call.
· Seeking information for Chapter Spotlight – any chapters that want events promoted or re-capped, contact Candice.
· Always interested in hearing what Chapters are doing in regards to diversity. There is a diversity blog to which people can contribute.

Assembly issues: This year the focus was supposed to be on what the profession will look like in the future. However, the APR designation for national leaders issue has resurfaced. This issue will be probably be discussed at Assembly.
Joe received email from Greater Cleveland Chapter regarding this issue – their board has already voted against this issue. The Akron board has also voted against this. Other chapters have this topic on their agenda to discuss. Chapters should let the District know how they vote.
Policies and Procedures:
While looking at what ECD board members can vote on what issues, Michelle also took a look at the entire Policy and Procedure document and has made recommended changes. We will vote on this at the next meeting. The caveat to that is that the elected board members are the only ones that can vote this time around until changes are voted in. Michelle reviewed changes.
Also, because the document referenced bylaws and P&P throughout and since ECD does not have any bylaws, that word has been changed to P&P throughout the document.
A section has been added for Objectives and Mission Statement updated to reflect what has already been changed.
The wording of the Quorum description has been changed to reflect that non-elected members are also on the board. The subjects that the various members can vote on has also been detailed in the document.
Job descriptions were moved into an Addendum section.
Need to change Section 6 Item a: Composition regarding the times at which the Directors At Large are voted on.
Financial Review Survey
Review for additional comments.
New Business
Conferences at Kent State will be held in September and October. Each will be a day-long session. The Akron and Greater Cleveland PRSA chapters have voted to support this conference. The event is expected to have a good attendance from the ECD members. They would like an endorsement (non-financial) from ECD. ECD needs to link these conferences on our Web site and email out to chapters. Motioned to endorse made by Jim, Michelle seconded. Endorsement passed.

The meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Denise Clark
ECD Secretary

August 10, 2010 PRSA ECD Board Call
In attendance: ECD Chair Joe Gollehon, APR, ECD Treasurer Karen Stiffler, APR, ECD Secretary Denise Clark, ECD Past Chair Michelle Lantz, APR, ECD Directors Jim Tabaczynski and Jeff Worden, APR, Hoosier Chapter President Jamaison Schuler, APR, PRSA Staff Member Candice Belitterra, APR and ECD Administrator Diane Slaughter, APR.
Excused Absences: ECD Chair-elect Jennifer Day, APR, ECD Directors Jeanette Drake, APR, ECD and Michael Hesse, Ph.D., APR and PRSA Board Member Dr. Steve Iseman, APR.
Call to order: 11:06 a.m.
Minutes: Accepted by consensus.
Financial Report:
Treasurer Stiffler provided the following report:  District income for the month of July totaled $882 from chapter dues and chapter excellence award fees.  Chapter dues were received from White Pine, West Virginia, Cincinnati, Central Michigan and Thoroughbred.  Chapter excellence award fees were received from Detroit, Greater Cleveland and West Virginia. Expenses totaled $265 for district administration fees.
     Current total checking account contains $6,409.02.  The two district CDs total $6,115.20 and district assets stand at $12,524.22.  We have spent 37% of our budget.  As of July 31, 2010, chapter dues have not been received by the following chapters: Bluegrass, West Michigan and Pittsburgh. ECD board liaisons should follow-up with their respective chapters concerning paying chapter dues.
     ECD is waiving dues for the Northwestern PA chapter since they are new – even though the chapter president was willing to pay the chapter dues personally. Dayton sent a lesser amount. ECD did receive notice that Pittsburgh is not paying their dues this year and Jeff is following up with them to investigate. Michelle will follow-up with Bluegrass.
     Report was accepted by consensus.
Chapter Leadership Development
QuickStart: Saturday, Oct. 3. Northwest Ohio chapter has agreed to sponsor appetizers for opening night reception. They will also get word out to their members to attend the reception. Marketing materials are next on the list of things to do. There is a hotel reservation code that needs to be used. Diane will send that out.
Mini-Leadership Training Modules: No requests at this time.
Chapter Strategic Planning Facilitation: No requests at this time.
Chapter Excellence Awards: Northwest PA judging them and results should be in-hand any day.
Encourage Leadership Continuum
National Nominating Committee: Jennifer will report on her attendance at the nominating committee next month.
District Nominating Committee: Nothing at this time.
Platinum Award (Durocher): Entries due Aug. 18th. Karen will contact a few people that she knows are interested. Diane will include in chapter update this week.
Build Stronger ECD Chapters
Speakers Bureau: No requests at this time.
Faebook, LinkedIn, Website: Nothing at this time.
Diamond Awards: In early September, the Bluegrass Chapter will judge the reciprocal awards. Emails have gone out and deadlines are posted. Jim will also post on all social media outlets. Deadlines are: early bird September 17 and regular deadline September 24. Need to utilize social media for promoting this effort. Publicity efforts are underway and going well—fully utilizing social media efforts. Because there will not be a paper marketing effort, the chapter is saving about $1300.
Reach all ECD chapters
ECD Chair Contacts – 2nd quarter: Is everyone getting their chapter visits done and sending Diane paperwork?
Indicator of Success
360 Review
Changes/edits on review are underway. Review will be launched after Labor Day.
National Updates
There is a survey that Joe will take and he will reach out to the ECD Board members as needed.
Policies and Procedures
Last month we talked about P&P changes. Michelle sent a copy of changes to review prior to the meeting. The most significant change is that of voting, who can vote and what constitutes a quorum. Quorum has been changed to "the number of board of directors’ members attending and present at a given meeting providing that at least three elected members are present." Michelle also asked that officers look at their at the job descriptions and give her any edits.
     IRS is requiring more financial documentation and policy from nonprofits. There is a non-compete clause – as a director, all your votes will be taken for the benefit of the East Central District and not for the benefit of your employers. As a new person comes on the board, the district needs to ensure that they get and read the policy and procedure manual. An updated version of the policy and procedures will also be posted to the website. Michelle moved that we accept the amended P&Ps. Jim seconded. Joe suggested that typos and grammar be changed as needed. Vote passed.
Finance Subcommittee
Finance Subcommittee met on July 27 by conference call.  Present:  Denise Clark; Jeanette Drake, Ph.D., APR; George Manahan, APR; Diane Slaughter, APR, PRSA Fellow; and Karen Stiffler, APR. Recommendation: The Finance Subcommittee would like to recommend creating a one-time matching mini grant program for ECD district chapter participation.  The subcommittee will develop a grant process for application and awards with a target implementation date of January 2011.  Chapters will need to match the grant award.  Grant requests will be considered for chapter programming, membership, professional development, accreditation, etc.  
     Subcommittee will be meeting again tomorrow morning at 9:30 AM by conference call. All are welcome to join the call. Karen can send dial-in-information to anyone interested.
     Motion made for subcommittee to proceed. Jim moved. Jeff seconded. Will need a formal vote after program is put together and before it is implemented. Motion passed.
New Business
Karen announced that Jamieson was nominated and is being honored as one of PR Week’s 40 under 40. This information will be included on our website and social media outlets.
Adjourn: 11:46
Respectfully submitted,
Denise Clark
ECD Secretary