Greetings Iowa Business Educators!

It’s hard to believe that we are almost 2 months into the school year. Before we know it the holidays will be here, winter break, and then the second half of the school year. Time really does go by in a blink of an eye.

As I step into the role of President and reflect on the last year, I think about all the great things IBEA has brought my way and how it’s helped in my personal growth. However, there is one area that I need to work on…communication. It seems like it should be an easy thing to do and yet I find myself falling short. Whether it’s with a student, parent, co-worker or my own family, via email, telephone, social media or face to face, it’s a skill that is never fully mastered.

This year my focus for IBEA is on communication. How can we make this association better for you? I assume I know what you want: networking, mentoring, collaboration, professional development opportunities, workshops. Or maybe it’s conversations via zoom? Help from an Area Rep or figuring out who your Area Rep even is? Without two-way communication I’m left wondering if IBEA is doing everything it can to support you.

So, I will work on being better at communicating who we are and how we can support your personal growth. I will provide opportunities for you to communicate your needs and ideas and I ask that you share the benefits of IBEA to nonmembers. Together we can make our organization stronger.

Dara Knudtson
IBEA President