AORE Annual Report 2012 | Page 2

2012 AORE Annual Report Letter from the President Thank you for your interest in and involvement with the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education. We are celebrating yet another remarkable year, which is a testament to the many individuals and organizations who give generously of their time, expertise and resources to further our mission. Throughout its history the AORE has been, and continues to be, driven by members who care passionately about our profession, industry and one another. In addition to our gratitude for the AORE’s numerous volunteers, we owe thanks to our Executive Director, Jeannette Stawski, C.A.E. and our National Office Staff, for their many success. When the Association voted to create a position for an Executive Director, it was a bold decision to invest in our capacity to achieve our mission at a higher level. In the two years since her hire, Ms. Stawski has exceeded all benchmarks, increased member services and raised the profile of the Association. In order to guide the AORE through its transition from an all-volunteer association to one that employs an Executive Director, this year the Board of Directors undertook an ambitious governance review which involved focus groups, interviews, roundtables and consultants. This groundwork set the foundation for our future. In addition to that success, we are celebrating these other notable achievements:         Largest membership in the history of the AORE Most conference attendees ever Expanded conference programming for seasoned professionals Growth in the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership Sixth year in a row under budget for expenses and above goals for income Growth in the AORE Annual Fund Significant increase in retention of vendor members Increased partnerships and new allies that align with the mission of the AORE The work we are doing is important—to our profession and industry, to one another and to our world. Our strength comes from our diverse, talented and loyal membership and from our mission, which has never been more relevant. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, Elizabeth K. Andre, Ph.D President of the AORE 1