President’s Message – February 2022

February already. It’s a chilly month made for firesides and Wordle with friends. (We’re all playing by now, right?) For GPA, it’s also a very active time. The Board meets the first week of the month, and we have already kicked off this year’s Mentor Program. The legislative session, and our policy and advocacy work, are ramping up fast. Spring conference plans are well underway; and, I hope you’re working on session proposals. It’s also one month into the grace period for those of you that haven’t logged your CM credits. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved and to stand up for planning. Your work matters.

Like so many in our community, I am saddened by the passing of Jeff Parker. He was a true public servant and industry leader. On behalf of the Board, I offer our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. He will be remembered for his contributions to MARTA and across the transportation industry. In remembrance, I encourage us all to promote the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and the Crisis Text Line, reached by texting TALK to 741741.