Happy New Year!
As we turn the calendar to 2022, I am excited and honored to be the President of our outstanding chapter. FPA MN has successfully navigated a couple of challenging years, and I look forward to what lays ahead of us.
As usual, we have a great calendar of events this year including educational and networking opportunities. I am also excited about some new developments:
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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee: In 2022, we are adding an additional committee to our association. The DE&I Committee will work to broaden our chapter and draw new people to FPA. I want to thank Board Director Mai Yang for her leadership in this new effort!
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Return to In-Person Events: We all missed getting together for chapter meetings and events over the last two years. Our board is committed to hosting in-person meetings and events this year. We will do so in a safe, responsible manner by continuing to monitor health regulations and guidelines and offering options to participate in events remotely as well.
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New Venue: We will return to in-person chapter meetings beginning this month! If you are comfortable, we invite you to join us at our new venue in Golden Valley: The Metropolitan Club and Ballroom. This is a convenient location, a great space and has amazing food from D’Amico & Sons. I hope to see you there!
I want to acknowledge the great work our board did last year, and specifically thank our 2021 Board President Ryan Antkowiak. Ryan faced a challenging year due to the ever-present uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. He navigated the last 12 months with courage and grace, and always went the extra mile to help out. Thank you, Ryan, for all you do for our chapter!
Lastly, I want to thank all our members. Due to your engagement and involvement, we are one of the largest and strongest chapters in the country! I encourage you to invite a friend or colleague to an event this coming year, and perhaps consider
joining a committee. I have found that being involved in FPA MN has been very rewarding, and believe you will, too.
I look forward to seeing you all in 2022!
Pete