Greetings and Happy New Year!  I am honored to serve as your Chair and excited to work with you to make PMI Atlanta a leading Chapter both nationally and globally.   As a Servant Leader, I value the success of the Chapter membership first.  I am committed to building a culture of integrity, accountability, and personal and professional growth within our organization.  

The primary focus in 2014 is to increase the value of membership and extend 2013 accomplishments through the innovative use of technology and creative initiatives.   In 2013 the chapter drafted and approved a formal social media policy that received national and regional accolades. With the enhancement of social media technology in 2014, email will be streamlined and members will be able to select from various mediums for a targeted communications experience.   Last year the Volunteer Relationship Management System (VRMS) was adopted to manage the application and selection of volunteers. The use of VRMS greatly increased our ability to match volunteers with opportunities that fit their specific needs and abilities.  This year a Volunteer Leadership Program will be rolled out that will provide the education; guidance and experience that will help volunteers become effective leaders within the Chapter and in their professional careers.  In addition, virtual meeting technology will be implemented to increase the opportunity and flexibility for members to participate in chapter meetings, seminars, etc.

You have told us that networking is one of the most valued activities offered by the Chapter.  In response, additional networking events and activities will be added to the calendar this year.   Please look for these exciting new opportunities to interact with your colleagues.

We will continue to schedule the monthly dinner meetings featuring a roster of excellent speakers. Beginning January 13, 2014, the location will change from the Crowne Plaza in Dunwoody to the WESTIN ATLANTA PERIMETER NORTH.

Finally, I am excited to announce that PMI Atlanta will host the Region 14 Leadership Conference in 2014.  Hosting the conference provides an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, share ideas with chapter leaders and to form relationships at the regional level.

I look forward to serving and working with you to achieve our 2014 goals!

All my best,

Yvonne Byars, PMP
Chair, PMI Atlanta Chapter