SNA Board Appoints Interim Executive VP

Karen Summers has been appointed interim executive vice president of the Southern Nursery Association (SNA), filling the position made vacant by the departure of Steve Newton last year.

The appointment comes after the SNA board of directors set new directives to rebuild and strengthen the association to achieve financial health and once again become an integral part of the horticulture industry in the Southeast.

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Over the past few years, the association’s financial stability has been shaken by the economic downturn, a decline in membership and no longer depending on a trade show as the major source of income. The newly elected board of directors plans to focus on member services that will promote the economic welfare of members, as well as the association. The goal of the current board is to not only survive but thrive.

Summers will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the association, as well as implementing the board’s strategic direction and plans.

“I’m delighted that Karen has agreed to be our interim executive vice president,” says Randy Bracy, newly elected president. “Her previous 18-year tenure with the association makes her an ideal choice to head our organization through this period of transition.”

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Summers brings nearly two decades of association experience serving as director of administration for the SNA from 1988 to 2006. During her tenure, she was instrumental in developing membership and booth sales to record levels, as well as building and improving member and exhibitor services.

In the coming months, Summers will work with the SNA board of directors to evaluate the association’s strengths and weaknesses to allow accurate assessment of risks and opportunities, take strategic action and set directives for organizational improvement. Immediate changes will include the closing of the Atlanta, Ga. office.

Summers will maintain a home-based office during this interim time. The SNA board invites members to share their thoughts on issues critical to SNA’s future. These comments may be sent to [email protected].

Learn more about SNA online at www.sna.org.

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