As a result of the new Board of Directors strategic plan developed in 2021, EDmarket leaders approved the addition of three new Councils to amplify all voices within our membership. Our long-term manufacturer and dealer members have Councils to represent their interests and suggest new programs to the board for implementation. Two active councils, the Equipment Manufacturers Council and Distribution Council, have been consistently important in increasing member engagement and keeping the association abreast of new trends that the industry needs to be aware of and address.
We are excited that all our members will have an equal opportunity to contribute to the stature of EDmarket and look forward to hearing how our new organization will continue to provide value and information so that our members can succeed.
However, in keeping with the strategic objective of embracing a broader industry, the membership in EDmarket has expanded and the Board has requested we add an Edtech Council, Architect & Design Council, and an Education Institution Council. Each of these Councils will be comprised of 10 members and the Chair will have a seat on the EDmarket Board of Directors.
These Councils will meet at least quarterly with the goal of identifying trends and common pain points. They will develop program ideas and suggest content that will help the association further our role as the repository of industry thought leadership and grow membership.
We are off to a great start. The Edtech Council met for the first time on March 22nd. The meeting was chaired by EDmarket past chair Angela Nelson of Stages Learning and was comprised of Tom Brennan, Office Outfitters; Berj Akian, Classlink; Chuck Amos, Amos Group; Adam Hall, Microsoft Education; and Kathy Hurley, Kathy Hurley Consulting. There was a robust discussion about the Edtech Industry and how EDmarket can play a significant role in understanding the intersection of Pedagogy, Space and Technology. There are currently 4 open positions on the Council, and we are actively looking for new members.
The Architect & Design Council and Education Institution Council will be formed shortly and begin to help shape the future and grow membership. If you would like to join any of these inaugural Councils or to reinvigorate the currently dormant Retail Council or Suppliers Council, we welcome your participation. Please call (800.395.5550, ext. 1029) or email me.
We are excited that all our members will have an equal opportunity to contribute to the stature of EDmarket and look forward to hearing how our new organization will continue to provide value and information so that our members can succeed.
One of the best ways to contribute to the industry, increase your network, and make a difference is to participate as a volunteer leader with EDmarket. We need and appreciate your involvement.