The Docket - October 2023 | Page 10

SOUTH COUNTY

President ’ s

COLUMN

Looking Ahead

Creating More Value for Our SCD Membership

by Albert “ AJ ” Stickley III , Esq . Stickley Law
PICTURED ABOVE : Attorney AJ Stickley , his wife , Chelsea , Genevieve ( 8 ), Vivienne ( 3 ), and Grant ( 5 ).
As “ just a kid from Englewood ” with a love for this town and Sarasota County , it is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility that I now serve as president of the South County Division of the Sarasota County Bar Association . In assuming this role , I am proud to continue to follow in the footsteps of those who have shaped this organization into what it is today .
First and foremost , I would like to thank and express our gratitude to Erin Itts for her service and leadership as president . She did an excellent job last year , and we are truly grateful for her contribution and guidance , as well as the contributions of all those on the outgoing board and the volunteers who have made the events successful .
Now , as we look to the future , we continue our mission : “ As a leader of the local legal community , the Sarasota County Bar Association serves our membership by advancing professionalism , promoting practice development , and fostering fellowship .” I want to take this opportunity as president to share my vision , one that will be filled with captivating events that will resonate with our entire community .
I will primarily concentrate on bolstering membership and securing sponsorships in the upcoming year . Another fundamental objective during my tenure will involve enhancing the benefits our members receive and to continue strengthening our network connections within our community , creating mutually beneficial relationships that will contribute to our organization ’ s success .
I am looking forward to advocating the needs of South County . We are fortunate that SCD has individuals like Tony Mowry , Erin Itts , and President-Elect Bryan Kesser holding positions . This provides an opportunity for South County to have its voice heard within the community . Having leadership roles can help advocate for the specific needs and concerns , as well as contribute to the broader goals and initiatives of SCBA . It ’ s important that we engage with the local community and work towards following our mission here and beyond .
I also look forward to serving alongside President-Elect Jacqulyn Mack-Majka , Treasurer Mark Creech , Secretary Daniel Lewis , Past President Erin Itts , as well as Directors Callie Cowan , Jessica Close , Ian MacLean , Madeline Ross Mojica , Nicole Peet , Robert Klingbeil Jr ., and all those who will unselfishly contribute their time to making
10 | THE DOCKET - OCTOBER 2023