As I look back on the changes and growth that have come to ACN from 2023 to 2024, I think about the many components that went into this success. Every volunteer played a part. And with American Thanksgiving nearly here, it reminds me of the many different components on the table that all add up to make the traditional meal. At ACN, every volunteer adds something unique that extends our mission and helps us implement our strategic priorities. I want to use this message as a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and thank a few of you who have been involved in this growth.

2023 priorities meant, in 2024, we shifted to our Alliance program. I want to thank everyone who has been supportive, flexible and understanding of our bigger version throughout this transition. It wasn’t always easy, but so many of our volunteers did hard work, and now our ability to engage volunteers in a quality way is at an all-time high. To our 36 Alliance leaders: We appreciate you. Thank you for fostering insightful communities. As EZLynx is still newer to the ACN community, I want to specifically call out the EZLynx Alliance Group (Leader Beaux Pilgrim and Co-leader Amanda Crawford). Their work to unite EZlynx users has brought value to many.

All committee volunteers work hard to bring ACN priorities to life. Thanks to the Content Committee (including Chair Theresa Pilmer and former Chair Miriam Kasseris) for enabling the publishing of dozens of informative articles right here on Connections. Thanks to the Education Committee (Chairs Carla Spencer and Jessica Klipphahn) for helping make this year’s AppliedNet Conference a success. Thanks to the Governance Committee (Chair Kerrie Koestner) for helping complete the Board election process for 2025.

Finally, a huge thanks to the ACN Board of Directors for leading ACN through key strategic initiatives — helping ACN transition to our new tech stack, welcoming EZLynx members into the community and evolving to Alliances.

Additionally, I want to acknowledge all volunteers’ efforts even within the current market. Your ability to persevere and do more with less has been inspiring and has kept ACN marching forward.

Volunteers at ACN embody the spirit of the season — a season of giving. The ACN team is thankful for you all. If you or someone you know would like to get involved in ACN as a volunteer, please review the open committee positions and apply by Dec. 12.

Sincerely,
Brian Langerman
ACN CEO