Dear OABSE Members and Supporters,

I am delighted to share with you the tremendous success of our 10th Annual Midwest Regional Conference! The event saw remarkable attendance, vibrant networking, and enriching professional development opportunities that have undoubtedly inspired and empowered our community.

Please mark your calendars for two significant upcoming events:

2025 Midwest Regional Conference: Save the date for April 24-26, 2025, at the Hilton Columbus/Polaris. We are already planning an exceptional lineup of speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities that you won't want to miss.
Fall Superintendent Commission Business Luncheon: Join us on September 19, 2024, at the Hilton Columbus/Polaris. This luncheon will provide a valuable forum for discussing the latest in educational leadership and policy.

I am also excited to announce the addition of four new affiliates to NABSE's Midwest region since March: the Illinois Alliance of Black School Educators (ILABSE), Fort Wayne Alliance of Black School Educators (FWABSE), Greater Dayton Alliance of Black School Educators (GDABSE), and South Bend Alliance of Black School Educators (SoBABSE). We warmly welcome these new affiliates and look forward to the contributions they will bring to our collective mission.

At our historic first Midwest Regional Delegate Assembly, members ratified and approved the establishment of a Midwest Regional Council. This council will be composed of all affiliate presidents in the Midwest region, along with appointed at-large representatives from each state. The executive committee includes the NABSE Midwest Regional Representative, the immediate past Midwest Regional Representative, and presidents of all state affiliates. This council will enhance our ability to coordinate efforts and advance our shared goals across the region.

Finally, please join me in welcoming and congratulating our newly elected executive officers who will lead OABSE into the next phase of growth and development:

President: Thandabantu Maceo
President-Elect: Dr. Sandy Womack
Treasurer: Tom Boggs
Recording Secretary: Chanell Phenix
Correspondent Secretary: Dania Kenty
Financial Secretary: Cheryl Jones

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. Together, we are making a significant impact on the education and development of Black and Brown students across the Midwest.

Forward ever, backward never,

Thandabantu Maceo

OABSE President

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