This past winter I perfected an eggplant casserole. And this morning, to my delight, I found one tucked away in the back of the freezer. Woohoo! I know what’s for dinner!
As if that weren’t enough excitement for the week, I also received a very big surprise this past Saturday: I was honored with the John J. Daly Award by the National Speakers Association DC Chapter, our most cherished chapter recognition. The award is given to someone who has generously served the community over time, and apparently, they mean a lot of time. My presidency and board work was from 2015 – 2019, so a long time ago, and I’ve been part of NSA-DC for over 20 years. Good thing the eggplant wasn’t that old.
It felt a bit like the chapter saying, “Hey, remember all that volunteer work you did before the pandemic? We do. And a few of us still like you!”
I’m truly humbled. This award isn’t about doing something flashy. It’s about showing up, pitching in, mentoring others, and sticking around long enough that someone eventually hands you a plaque. And what a plaque! I now get to join an incredible list of past recipients, many of whom I admire deeply, and have been lucky to call friends and mentors.
This recognition isn’t just about me, it’s about what happens when people give. When they say yes to a committee, volunteer to judge an event, or call a new member just to say “Welcome.” It’s about quietly contributing.
I’ve had the joy of being the “official” mentor to some amazing speakers, including:
I can’t take credit for their brilliance, but I’m proud to have played a small part in their journey. I’ve also unofficially supported many others, including Sylvia Baffour, through coaching, encouragement, and community building.
A huge thank-you to this year’s NSA-DC president, Rob Clark, for bringing his energy and dedication to the role, and to the entire board and every past president. You’re the ones who keep the lights (and Zoom links) on.
If you’ve ever wondered whether volunteering matters, trust me, it does. Sometimes years later.
Outside of NSA-DC, I’ve volunteered in many ways over the years: I’ve dedicated over 1,000 hours to Montgomery County Public Schools as a PTA president and classroom helper, served as a Girl Scout leader and donated blood regularly, and most recently, teaching English as a second language in my community. People sometimes ask me which is better, professional or personal volunteer work. My answer is always: both.
So thank you, NSA-DC, for this beautiful surprise. I’m still grinning. And thank you to everyone who gives back, in ways large and small, to the communities that shape us.
What small act of service might you offer today that could turn into a surprise award… or at least a really good dinner?
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