Friday, August 29, 2008

MD Pro chapter to be honored in Atlanta

For those who haven't seen the chapter's announcement:

The Maryland Pro Chapter has been awarded one of three "Green Thumb" awards for growing chapter membership during the last year.

John Ensslin, out-going chairman of the the society's national Membership Committee, announced the award in an Aug. 28 e-mail.

The awards will be presented to chapter President Bryan Sears and Vice President Sarah Breitenbach on Sept. 6 at the national convention in Atlanta.

This is the first year for the awards which are given to student and professional chapters that post the highest percentage or numerical gain according to the most recent census of chapter membership.

The professional chapter in St. Louis will be recognized for largest percentage of chapter growth. Drake University won both awards in the student chapter categories.

Upon being elected last fall, Sears set a goal of increasing membership to 100 in 18 months. Soon after, Vice President Sarah Breitenbach took over membership for the chapter and joined other national leaders in monthly conference calls on growing membership.

"We've really focused on giving Maryland journalists a reason to be a part of SPJ," Breitenbach said. "We want members to feel like they get what they pay for with a membership. If we accomplish that, they'll keep coming back — hopefully with their colleagues in tow."

Maryland Pro Chapter posted the largest numerical gain, adding 59 members since last year. The chapter now boasts a membership of about 112.

"This is exciting news as we move forward with building the chapter," Sears said. "Over the last year, Sarah has taken the lead on membership issues. The award is proof that our chapter's increased activities and hard work have had an effect on membership. Sarah has been a huge part of driving that change."

Overall, national membership grew 7-percent over last year.

The additional membership means Maryland Pro Chapter will have a larger voice in national affairs. Votes at the national convention, where national officers are elected and installed, is based on chapter size. Chapters are given one vote for every 50 members or portion there of. The increased size gives the chapter one additional vote compared to last year