Well folks, it is that time of year again - the summer months have waned off, fall has set in, and we are fast approaching the official start of the "Holiday Season". And with that come scents of fresh baked pies, yule logs in the fireplace, and the tradition of spending time with family, loved ones, friends and neighbors. In the immortal words of the Byrd’s..."There is season...turn turn turn". 

As in years past at this time, I always take time to reflect to what I am thankful for this time of year with life in general, but also with this chapter and CSI. I am going to focus on the latter this month. 

I am especially thankful for the work of, and support from, the CSINext Board of Directors. Their steadfast commitment to ensuring the continued success, wellbeing, and growth of this chapter from year to year is truly appreciated. I hope not only by myself but you the members as well. I'm truly grateful to be leading the chapter this year but could not do it without the fine group of folks who serve alongside. I remember when I started in this chapter in 2013 - there were maybe 15-20 members. We have now reached over 124 and are continuing to grow. The virtual chapter continues to serve a unique niche within CSI, and I am thankful for all of the hard work the founders, previous boards, and this board has done. So, in no particular order, Kathryn, Daniel, Lane, Staci, Luana, and Thad....THANK YOU for all that you do!

Last week in The Punchlist blog "It's Not Easy Being Green" I mentioned investing early in your professional development helps build a solid foundation in your career and professional network. I'm so thankful to see so many students, young, and emerging professionals becoming involved with CSI and seeing the value the organization provides early on in a career. CSINext is very excited to have several students, young, and emerging professionals active and participating in CSI and the chapter. Enthusiasm spreads like wild fire!

Martin Luther King said - "“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?”. Whether you're a chapter sponsor, individual contributor or member, presenter, or all of the above - I am thankful for continued support of CSI and CSINext with your invaluable contributions throughout the year. Whether it is topics for our monthly learning sessions, suggestions, taking part in a blog, being a trusted advisor in support to our many members, and being a professional resource, it is your contribution(s) and giving back to the industry that makes this all what it is. Thank you for all of your selfless contributions!

Last but not least - I am thankful for the recent advances made in providing CSI certification exam opportunities for folks that are outside of the US that are interested in obtaining CSI certifications. That is a huge win not only for CSINext with out international base, but for CSI in general!  We even have a couple of internationally based chapter members who will be taking certification exams during the Fall 2023 window. Best of luck to all of you and thank you for your patience while CSI and multiple others helped developed this opportunity!

So, with that I am going to wrap up this month’s President's blog - we have an exciting AIA Document course coming up later this month for our Chapter Program -  Evolving Project Delivery: Mastering Change with AIA Contract Documents presented by Tom Hysell, Patrick O'Connor, and CSINext Chapter Secretary and CSI Fellow Lane Beougher.

Keep an eye out on the CSINext website for sign up information as well as the CSI Calendar of Events!

But between now and then - take some time to consider...what are you thankful for? 

Till next time, 
Mark