Genesee Valley Chapter
Adirondack Mountain Club

Here and There with Deni

June 10, 2008 11:03 AM ET

More from Deni

June 2008

Thank you!
Deni Charpentier, Chapter Chair

It was with some trepidation that I took over the office of Chapter Chair a year ago. I remember well how anxious I was when I first stood on the stage at the Eisenhart Auditorium and looked out at the audience with microphone in hand. Even worse was the apprehension I felt when I chaired my first Executive Committee meeting. I was expected to lead all of these people who I so admired for their accomplishments, skills, knowledge and dedication. How could I do that? It was soon made clear to me that I was among friends who would be supportive, and forgiving of any short-comings that I revealed. What I discovered was that the membership of ADK-GVC consists of a lot of down-to-earth and really NICE people. Wonderfully helpful folks who would do anything they could to make our common goals happen. All I had to do was ask for help and I would receive it.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the many people who have helped me over this past year. The members of the Executive Committee in particular have been outstanding. Whenever and wherever a need has arisen, all I have had to do was ask and people would respond by volunteering their time and efforts. I would love to name individuals except that there are so many, and I fear that I would leave someone out. However, I do want to make special mention of the Nominating Committee for 2008-2009; Rich Sensenbach, Gail Soucy, Jackson Thomas and Shirley Thomas. They had a particularly important and difficult task and have done a great job. I really appreciate all the hard work they put into the selection process. The result is a slate of candidates for the coming year that is perfect for the Chapter. I applaud and thank the candidates for their willingness to serve.

Being in a leadership position for ADK has been a rewarding experience for me. By stepping way outside my comfort zone I have grown personally and I am glad that I took this opportunity to serve. If any of you are thinking about getting more involved with ADK-GVC then I encourage you to go for it. There are many ways to become an active part of the group and I can tell you that the rewards that I have received from my volunteer positions have far outweighed the time and effort and difficulties. What I have found over my years of involvement with our Chapter is that I get back more than I give – including wonderful friends and unforgettable experiences.

More from Deni

Rich's Ramblings, 2006-2007