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NARFE Officer Candidate Statements
by NARFE
CANDIDATE STATEMENTS
NARFE members will elect national officers and regional vice
presidents for two-year terms. NARFE members who announced their candidacy by the deadline submitted the following statements for publication in NARFE Magazine. They have not been edited in any way. Please note that as of press time, NARFE received no candidate submissions for regions I, II, VI and VIII. All candidate statements, including those received since February 15, are published at www.narfe.org/2022election. The August issue of NARFE Magazine will include instructions for voting online or by mail.
Candidates for National President
BILL R. AUSTIN
I seek your vote to elect me NARFE National President. From humble beginnings, I developed a burning desire to work hard and create a better life. There were no resources to attend college. So, I did the next best thing. I enlisted in the school of hard knocks - the US Army. I served three years and reached the rank of Specialist fourth class. I later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science.
My greatest ambition was to become a Postal Service letter carrier. I did, but that old mail bag got heavy, and I accepted the fact that carrying mail was a hard physical job. I turned my attention to the union and then to the management ranks. I progressed up the ladder to regional manager positions with ever increasing levels of responsibilities. I retired as a
District Manager in Greensboro NC.
A friend introduced me to NARFE. I signed up. I enjoyed NARFE so much that I was compelled to explore every role that NARFE had to offer. I held positions from Chapter VP to National Vice-President. While serving as NVP, my maker called me home to care for a deeply troubled youth. I found joy beyond description in that endeavor.
I am now inspired to return to NARFE as your National President. NARFE is facing tremendous pressures: 1. to perform politically 2. to find/retain members and 3. to right size financially. My success has always come from the people I lead. Fixing Operations is what I do. I am ready with your permission to fix NARFE. It will not cost you a dime. I will not accept a salary. NARFE can use a measure of financial relief. I will leave the day-to-day operations of NARFE to a competent CEO. I will function as President/ Chairman of the Board.
I have and will continue to share my vision for NARFE. It can become your vision too. I talk with members who share opinions. I incorporate their ideas into my vision and build upon them. So, you can count on me to listen to you. If you want to help me fix NARFE, VOTE BILL R. AUSTIN.
Note: If you would like more information about my vision/plan/leadership experience, I can send you a more detailed explanation. Send request to: billaustin@carolina.rr.com. For those of you who have no e-mail access, call 704-846-1945.
JON WILLIAM DOWIE
I am a candidate for NARFE National President. As former Chapter Officer & National Secretary/Treasurer (20142018) my experience will enable NARFE to succeed. During those terms we instituted Webinars which enhanced retention and recruiting. We instituted governance documents enhancing Board accountability. We insured that TSP (Thrift Advisory Plan) call centers were not reduced in size or number and that more flexible withdrawal options for participants were instituted. As the
committee chairperson for the Strategic Planning Committee, we authored both previous Strategic Plans for NARFE. I was able to participate in marketing studies, including focus groups, that contributed to increasing our membership retention rate.
My current credentials include CPA, Certified Information Technology Professional, Chartered Global Management Accountant and formerly Certified Government Financial Manager. In addition, I am a member of non-profit section of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. I am the President of Sister Cities of St. Augustine sponsoring student exchanges with Spain as well as coordinating with the Mayors and City Councils in Spain, Columbia, and Florida. I am presently employed by a firm that developed a proprietary software as well as systems for the US Government, Boeing, Lockheed, and others.
As a former Chief Financial Officer for a publicly traded international firm and several privately owned firms, I have insight into complicated domestic as well as international arrangements. Serving on the faculty of Clemson University and later as the Technical Director of the National CPA Group provided me a unique ability to contribute to consensuses of differing constituencies.
My Pentagon background in maintaining Congressional relationships is something that will be valuable to NARFE. Being Retired Navy Special Operations and a member of the Military Officers Association of America, when I speak for you on the hill, on many topics, I can speak for 500,000 voters!
The “Washington” environment is chaotic in normal times, but we have to continue to think strategically and act tactically.
NARFE has a loyal membership, an excellent governing Board, a dedicated staff, an award-winning magazine, and is admired for its effectiveness on “the Hill,” but we still have challenges. We have to make administration of Federations and Chapters more efficient and easier. Our members that are not in chapters have to be given opportunities to participate. Those members still working should be encouraged to enjoy the benefits of membership.
Please permit me to contribute toward resolution of our challenges by voting for me.
GARY ROUNDTREE SR.
I have a dream for NARFE: The membership decline will be slowed down thru actively engaging our current members and attracting younger feds to our association. As the old saying goes, “the devil is in the details.” Thru a collaborative effort of NARFE leaders and our members, positive change will ensure. I promise to be a continues source of encouragement of initiative, responsibility, and energy in serving the best interest of our members.
As your National President, a person rank and reputation in this organization will not be decided by his/her position title, the size of the job he does, and nor by the size of his staff, his office, or his budget. Let it be clear that as your National President, I will recognize the value of dissent and daring healthy controversy, will be greeted as the hallmark of healthy change.
My NARFE Goals:
NARFE is at a crossroad where critical decisions must be made. However, like many other organizations, membership is declining, unlike the “baby boomers” the current generations are not “joiners.” My goal is to put in place an effective Recruiting, Retention, and Reinstatement (3R’s) Plan.
Input will be asked for from our members because they are our most value asset and are “where the rubber meets the road.” Members will have a valuable seat behind the wheel of NARFE.
For one true measure of an organization is its success in fulfilling the promise of a better life for its members. Let this be the measure of our organization.
Our goal is not the victory of might, but the vindication of right…not peace at the expense of freedom, but both peace and freedom, here in this hemisphere, and we hope, around the world. God willing, that our goals will be achieved.”
I will strive to continue to celebrate NARFE legacy and for NARFE to continue to supply tireless advocacy and trusted advice. NARFE National Experience 2014-2016 – National Bylaws Committee 2019 – Federation President’s Meeting – Host Chair 2021 – Strategic Planning Committee 2021 – 2023 – Audit Committee Chair 2021 – 2023 – Compliance Officer 2021 – Present Regional II Vice President Maryland Federation President 1st Vice President Legislative Director Acting Federal Legislative Chair State Legislative Committee Chapter Legislative Officer Service Officer Other I am a U.S. Marine Corps and Army Reserve Veteran Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma Ordained minister and a member of Department of Veteran Affairs National Black Chaplains Association
WILLIAM “BILL” SHACKELFORD
It is impossible to lead and serve if you are not willing to listen. Members require someone who will listen and address their concerns. My decision to run for National President is to ensure continuance of our history of success as an advocacy group by adjusting its direction with emphasis on including Chapter members and National-only members (NOMs) in recruitment and legislative events. Chapters have played an important role in NARFE’s history by helping members connect and get involved in local and national activities. Organizations must build on such traditions to evolve, survive, and thrive. After 100 years, it is appropriate for NARFE to move to a new model.
Approximately 51% of membership are NOMs. These individuals believe that lobbying of elected state and national officials should be the primary focus at all levels of NARFE to advance the goals of members and their spouses.
We must exercise appropriate advancements to make NARFE viable and stronger. The Future of NARFE Committee report provided a blueprint for reorganization. As Co-Chair, I helped develop the Committee recommendations which could solve many of NARFE’s current challenges coupled with the Strategic Plan.
NARFE should restructure current Chapter format into Congressional District Chapters (CDC) by redrawing Chapter boundaries to coincide with Congressional Districts. The position of Chapter President would evolve into a position of Congressional District Leader (CDL) with overall responsibility of CDC activities. Every NARFE member would fall into the boundaries of a CDC. Members would have a choice to actively participate in CDC activities or not. Regardless of their choice, everyone would be receiving all communications, considerations, and benefits. The CDL would be the Point of Contact to interface with Congressional staff as well as Members of Congress.
I appreciate all members and their work for NARFE over the years. We must work together to address the challenges that OUR organization faces. I am confident that the many leadership positions that I have held equip me with a broad and deep understanding of NARFE’s strengths and challenges. • National 2013-2014 – Chair of National Bylaws Committee 2014 – Co-Chair of “Future Of NARFE” Committee 2016-2017 – Executive Director Search Committee 2021 Strategic Planning Team 2021 – Chair Membership Advisory Committee • Regional Vice President 2014-present • Federation
President 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President • Chapter
President
Vice President
Service Officer
I respectfully ask for your vote and support by electing me as your NARFE National President.
Candidates for National Secretary/Treasurer
KATHRYN HENSLEY
During 25 plus years as a NARFE member, I have served in most chapter and federation positions including president, and as a national officer. My education at three universities and my experience in administration, finance, planning, technology, legislative, contracting, and program management positions in a 27-year career with the Defense Department and NOAA, eight years in state government, with two years at the Medical University of South Carolina, and many years as a community volunteer in key positions, prepared me for this position. Non-profit experience was gained at local, state, regional and national levels where I had board and president responsibilities.
Upon arrival at NARFE headquarters, it was evident that basic guidelines were out of date or non-existent and the financial base was shaky. Working with our membership and asking a lot of hard questions of staff, we are finally seeing some of the change we have talked about for over a decade.
We have learned how to handle disruptions. We’ve accepted postponement for proper
functioning of an updated Association Management System (AMS) with the CAB now taking the lead on improvements. The regional vice presidents and national secretary/treasurer endured position reviews which helped us realize the necessity for an updated policy manual. Again, we will look at selling the headquarters building without plans or a financial review for staff returning full time and the impact loss of a large asset will have on NARFE’s future.
For two years straight in this decade, our yearend financial reports are showing a surplus and the investment portfolio has grown significantly. The annual budget is now prepared with a scaled down travel plan, adjusted staff positions, and a careful approach to new contracts. After passing a required balanced budget, we have new policies that ensure future executive boards and managers have guidelines to follow.
While I am proud of what we accomplished, we have more work ahead. With a new membership plan and hard work from each of us, we should set the goal to break even recruiting new members by the end of 2022 and start 2023 with a net increase of new members.
In 2017, I first ran for National Secretary/Treasurer. As in 2020, I am respectfully asking for your vote for reelection to this final term. Join me on this journey and be a part of recruiting those new members.
Candidates for Regional Vice President
Region I—Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont
No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.
Region II —Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.
Region III— Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Virgin Islands
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
DONZLEIGH “DONI” DOWIE
NARFE members in Alabama, Florida,
Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina,
Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, I would like to represent you as the Regional Vice President for Region III. I am Donzleigh (Doni) Dowie and my credentials qualify me to lead you. My thirty-three-year career in the Federal Government included positions at the U. S Naval Academy, U. S. Coast Guard Headquarters, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (now known as ICE) and culminating in a position on the staff of Chief of Naval Operations. Ironically, although not my normal duty station, I was in the Pentagon on September 11th. At points in time, I was a Management/Program Analyst determining the distribution of confiscated assets, and performing Most Efficient Organizations and Commercial Activities reviews. My work resulted in significant saving to the Federal Government. Both my mother-in-law and father-in-law were career Postal employees.
While working full-time, I began classes part-time. Ten years of dedicated study resulted in a Bachelor of Science in Business (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of Maryland. I later pursued a joint certification from the American Society of Appraisers and George Washington University in Appraisal Studies. Several of my instructors are seen on the Antiques Road Show.
After a successful career in government, I started my own business. I have been President and Facility Security Officer for my firm for more than 20 years. My clients included various intelligence agencies and the Department of Commerce. We now are service providers to the US Air Force, US Navy, Lockheed Martin and Boeing.
The skills that I have developed would certainly allow me to contribute to the National Executive Board. In the past I have been a NARFE chapter officer, President of the Guild of the Emil Maestre Music Association, President of a local Garden circle, on the Advisory Board of Romanza (local performing arts organization) and Docent at the Saint Augustine Art Association.
NARFE is at a critical stage of existence and I believe that I have the business skills and experience that is needed to work toward a more robust organization that is capable of meeting the challenges of the future. A broad view of the environment that we are currently facing with the ability to make decisions that will put the organization first is what is needed now.
Your vote would be gratefully appreciated. PLEASE VOTE!
HUELYN (LYNN) HARPER
During my 18 years as a NARFE member, the landscape has changed dramatically. Some changes have been extraordinary, i.e., the loss of over 14,000 members in 2021. Even with challenges, it’s an exciting time to be a NARFE member. Challenges are opportunities to implement change. We cannot keep doing the same things we have always done; otherwise, we’ll get the same results. We must step outside of our comfort zone and try things that we have never done before
My NARFE experience has been filled with numerous challenges and with personal growth and satisfaction. I was the 2008 GA Federation Chapter Member of the Year and the 2012 and 2020 GA Federation Executive of the Year; developed and published a District Vice President Handbook, Recruiting SMART Book, Membership (3R’s) Handbook, New Member Survey, Exit Survey, etc.; developed and conducted numerous training courses, i.e., Chapter Officer Training, Leadership Training, Communications Training, NARFE 101, etc. for the Federation and for Region III.
I’ve held a variety of positions at both the Federation and Chapter Levels. Since November 2016, I have served as GA Federation President. Other Federation offices held are Vice President/Membership Chair, Secretary, and Retention/Reinstatement Chair. I’m currently President of Chapter 1417 and previously served as the Chapter Secretary. At the National level, served on the 2019-2020 and 2021-2022 National Bylaws Committee, Member of 2018 NARFE Marketing and Membership Committee, Member of Membership Committee at 2016 and 2014 National Conventions, Future of NARFE Committee (FONC), Chair of SAGES (commonly referred to as Federation President’s Advisory Committee), and the AMS Accuracy Team. Facilitator for the Nov 2021 and Jan 2022 Quarterly Federation President’s Meetings
My Goals as Region III Vice President are:
• Represent the members of Region III
• Promote the 3R’s – Recruiting New Members,
Retaining Current Members, and Reinstating
Former Members • Promote open lines of communications between
NARFE Headquarters, the Federations, and the
Chapters and keep all parties informed in a timely manner. • Implement a Suggestion/Sharing Program within
Region III
Retired after 30 years of service as Manpower Chief for the North Atlanta Regional Medical Command and Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC. I have a B.A. in Social Work from UGA (Go DAWGS).
I respectfully ask for your vote to elect me as your Region III Vice President. It would be an honor and pleasure to serve as your RVP. Together we can make a difference.
Region IV— Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
BOB HELFRICH
The past two years of Covid-19 have proven difficult in life as well as for the National Active and Retired Employees association (NARFE). There was both good and bad, most in-person chapter and federation conventions were on hold for a year and then resumed in smaller groups. NARFE HQ operated remotely for over a year and then resumed half time in-person and half time remotely. Most chapters and federations saw their bank balances increase due to lack of in-person activity. NARFE HQ saw the same results and so calendar year 2020 and 2021 both ended in the black for the first time in two decades. The NARFE dues increase helped to bolster finances as well. As a member of the budget finance and investment committee for the past three years, we pushed for balanced budgets and more expense management, including right sizing the headquarters staff commensurate with the reduction in membership. Our investment incomes have increased our cash assets from about five million dollars in 2018 to over nine million today. NARFE is in a better financial position today, than the day I took office in 2018. Our focus today is the same as one hundred years ago, to advocate for legislation that protects our earned benefits and to find new and innovative ways to recruit membership. Let us each recruit one member and double our membership.
Below are the NARFE positions of experience that I have held:
Region IV Vice President (3 Year), Indiana Federation President (1 Year), Indiana Federation Treasurer (6 years), Chapter President (7 years), Chapter Vice-President (1 year), Chapter Treasurer (4 years), Chapter Secretary (3 years).
During my thirty-three (32) year Postal career I held the following leadership positions:
Indiana District Manager of Finance (6 years), Indiana District Manager of Budget and Financial Analysis (17 years). As a high energy individual, I received more than twenty (20) exceptional performance awards.
Private Sector experience:
Have a successful accounting business of over forty (40) years, including payroll services, incorporation services and tax preparation for corporations, partnerships, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, QuickBooks and ATX.
In addition, I am the treasurer for four (4) non-profit organizations including my church and maintain these accounting records via QuickBooks.
I would appreciate your support and vote as my goal is to lead NARFE to reach a different generation.
Region V—Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
CINDY RENEÉ BLYTHE
The members of Region V have had faith in my leadership abilities for the past 2 terms; I’m asking them to “keep the faith” and reelect me as Region V Vice-President for my last 2-year term. The seven states within Region V have made difficult decisions this last term due to the pandemic concerns; a couple Federations have gone to bi-annual conferences and all have embraced the use of electronic technology.
As your Region V Vice-President, I feel it is my responsibility to handle issues at the lowest level possible before involving National staff. With that goal in mind, I will continue to listen to your concerns and address them at the region level when possible. I will continue to aggressively bring your concerns and issues to the attention of the appropriate Headquarters staff.
During my two terms as a member of the NEB, I have learned how to champion the issues of Region V without compromising the values of the membership as a whole. It has been a learning experience working with the other members on the NEB especially since half of the individuals were new to their positions but a great deal has been accomplished. Still, there is more important work to be done.
Membership continues to pose complex issues. We desperately need to gain new members but the perfect answer keeps eluding us. I pledge to continue to work with Region V Federations and Chapters to successfully gain new members, to explore new avenues to regenerate interest in NARFE, and continue providing benefits to existing members. It is through our existing
members that we gain insight into what potential members need from our organization. The AMS is not a perfect system, it still requires intense intervention for our use in the field. With my knowledge of database systems, I can provide guidance towards reaching a functionable system. Big changes are coming for NARFE; having a person with experience and the fortitude to look past personal wants and consider the needs of the entire membership is a must. I hope that members of Region V allow me the opportunity to continue serving them in this important role and continue my service to NARFE and its members. Thank you for supporting me these past four years and I look forward to continuing my service on the National Executive Board.
Region VI— Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama, Texas
No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.
Region VII— Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
SHARON REESE
I am announcing candidacy for the position of NARFE Region VII Vice President in 2022. I believe if you wish to run for an office, a requirement is that you know something about the workings of the organization as well as the functions of the position. I think that my experience and knowledge of the issues affecting all federal employees and retirees makes me a viable candidate for the position of Region VII Vice President.
I joined NARFE February 28, 2007, as an active federal employee. I have held numerous positions in Chapter 182, to include current President. I served as SW District Vice President and elected in April 2018 President of the New Mexico Federation after serving as Vice President (Legislation) for 8 years.
During my 14 years with NARFE, I have participated at several levels of leadership serving on the biennial National Advocacy Advisory Committee three consecutive terms, current member of SAGES (Select Advisory Group Ensuring Success), and the Strategic Planning Committee. I currently serve as the FEEA Coordinator for Region VII. I have attended numerous NEB meetings as a guest of the Region VII Vice President as well zoom NEB meetings. I have chaired numerous New Mexico Federation Conferences and Region VII Conferences. This has afforded me a broad knowledge of NARFE and prepped me to now seek the position of Region VII Vice President.
I retired from the Department of Defense, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico in 2008 after 33 years of service. I was a Division Chief/Deputy Director for nineteen of my tenure.
Organizations I am involved with are: (1) Life member of the Federal Managers Association for over 30 years serving as Chapter President, Region 9 Vice President (3 years before reorganization) and served as Secretary to the Army Caucus; (2) I am President Emeritus of the White Sands Missile Range Historical Foundation where I have served as President for 10 years; and (3) Member of the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Military Affairs Committee.
My goal for Region VII is to be an advocate to all members, chapters, and federations. I will be your voice and representative, proactive collaborator to strengthen NARFE and our future.
I respectfully ask for your vote to elect me your Region VII Vice President. I will serve with dignity and dedication. It would be my honor to serve you, the members of Region VII.
THEODORE A. (TED) VAN HINTUM
NARFE Experience
I joined NARFE as an active federal employee in 2006. After retirement from federal service, I became President of NARFE Billie Love chapter 2286 in 2011 and continue to serve in that position. I was appointed Colorado
Federation Vice President in 2012 and was elected Colorado Federation President in 2013, 2015 and 2021. I also serve as Colorado’s fifth Congressional District Leader and am a NARFE Life Member.
My accomplishments as Colorado Federation President include:
• Launching the Colorado NARFE News, a quarterly newspaper delivered to all NARFE members in
Colorado; • Creating the congressional district leader (CDL) program in Colorado and appointing CDL’s to serve in Colorado’s seven congressional districts; • Serving on the national NARFE Strategic Planning
Committee in 2015 and 2017; and, • Serving on the national NARFE Bylaws Committee in 2016, 2018, 2019-20, and as Chairperson of the 2021-2022 Bylaws Committee.
Federal Service
In 2008, I retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after almost thirty-eight years of federal service. My career started as a VA claims examiner in the Des Moines, Iowa VA regional office in 1970. Later, I transferred to VA headquarters in Washington, DC joining the Veterans Benefits Administration. My last position was as a senior manager in VA’s Education Service where I was responsible for overseeing VA regional office operations in the administration of the GI Bill education program.
Education
I graduated from Iowa State University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. I also pursued graduate studies in Public Administration at Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa.
Military Service
From 1963 to 1966, I served in the Navy and am a Vietnam veteran.
NARFE Challenges
The Association has several critical challenges that need to be addressed. 1. Membership. NARFE lost over 14,000 members in 2021. New strategies are needed to recruit and retain new members. 2. Governance. With the continuing loss of members and the resulting loss of dues revenue, the NARFE governance structure of ten, compensated regional vice presidents should be reviewed. The NARFE policy-making process needs to be more efficient and agile. 3. Association Management System. The AMS contains inaccurate membership data and corrections to the system occur slowly, if ever. Since the current contractor has been acquired by another firm, alternatives should be evaluated.
I respectfully ask Region VII members to vote for me as their Region VII Vice President.
Thank you. ted.vanhintum@gmail.com
Region VIII— California, Hawaii, Nevada, Republic of the Philippines
No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.
Region IX— Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
STEVEN R. ROY
I am announcing my candidacy to serve as the next Vice President for Region IX. As the current Washington State Federation president I have lead our federation for two years on a number of projects such as establishing a reinvention committee that updated the federation Attention/Retention post card; conducted a survey of federation/chapter officers and leaders; focusing on recruitment, retention and reinstatement by providing tools for NARFE leaders such as purchasing table runners to be used at health fair events and other events; and requesting a Proclamation from Washington’s Governor Jay Inslee that acknowledged NARFE’s Centennial.
I have served as our federation’s National Legislative Chair carrying out NARFE’s primary mission of grassroots advocacy meeting with all members of the Washington Delegation or their staffs. Regularly meeting with our elected officials is important to establish and build a relationship so that when new legislation is announced we are the go to resource for our Representatives and Senators. It takes time and patience to build this relationship which I have proven time and again pays off.
I will serve as the voice for all of Region IX members (chapter and national only) representing the membership concerns, issues and opportunities as I meet with NARFE national leaders (National Executive Board), HQ managers and staff.
I have supported the NARFE Alzheimer’s Research program to help end this terrible disease. Along those lines I have lead “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” teams to raise awareness and funds that provide Alzheimer’s care and support along with accelerating research.
I believe in taking action and lead by example.
I ask for your vote as the next Vice President for NARFE Region IX.
See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.
ROBERT ALLEN
I’m Robert Allen, candidate for NARFE’s Region X (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia) Vice President on the National Executive Board (NEB). We’re 100 years strong and I want to do my part to keep us strong for the next 100 years! The primary job of the NEB is oversight of NARFE. It sets the overall direction and goals of the organization and institutes policies to fulfill our core mission of protecting our earned pay and benefits. I concentrated on this as the North Carolina Federation President by leading a mission-focused, comprehensive strategic planning effort. So, as your NEB representative it will be my duty to see where we are and where we need to be. I’ll be in constant communication with you to bring the best and brightest ideas to the table. NARFE members have a wealth of knowledge that the NEB should tap.
There are three primary areas we must focus on.
1. Ensuring our mission of protecting our earned pay and benefits drives everything we do. a. Non-partisan legislative advocacy regarding all aspects of federal benefits b. Policies reflecting our mission 2. Increasing our membership a. Loss of over 300,000 members since 1980, 14,000 in the last year; subsequent loss of dues revenue b. Policies and programs, including new initiatives/ technology such as FEDHub, to turn the tide 3. Reviewing (and changing, if needed) governance/ structure a. HQ role? Regions? Federations? Chapters? b. National Executive Board/Board of Directors c. Efficient, responsive national policymaking process d. Cohesive financial policies; fewer inefficient, more cost-effective measures for continued service/ value to our members. It’s your money!
I’m ready to lead NARFE into our second 100 years. I look forward to serving you. I respectfully ask for your vote because a vote for me is a vote for NARFE! For more information, see www.robert4regionx.org. NARFE Credentials: 2016-2018 NC Federation President; 2014 National Bylaws Committee; Committee Chair, 2016-2020; 2012-Present President, Chapter 2295; 20212022 NC Federation National Legislative Officer; NARFE Centennial Club Federal Service: 32 years with Department of Defense and Department of Army; retired as Chief, Futures Division, Office of Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, US Army Training and Doctrine Command Military Service: US Army 1972-1975 Education: 1972--BS in Spanish, East Carolina University; 1978--MA in Slavic Linguistics, University of North CarolinaChapel Hill; 1997--Graduate, Army Management Staff College (AMSC); winner of AMSC professional writing competition.
CHARLES TALLEY
This is NARFE’s opportunity for survival by electing Charles Talley, a person who implements and executes strategic initiatives. Vote Charles Talley
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
NC Federation – Executive Vice President Chapter 105 President – Charlotte, NC Chapter 105 1st VP – Charlotte, NC Congressional District Leader – NC Federation National Legislative Officer – NC
WORK EXPERIENCE POSTAL SERVICE
Tactical Marketing & Sales – Washington, DC Regional Advisory Manager – Windsor, Connecticut National Accounts Manager – New York Metro NY Manager Commercial Accounts – Detroit, Michigan Training & Development - Paterson, New Jersey
AARP
National Coordinator WorkSearch Program – Washington, DC National Advisor Council – Washington, DC National Volunteer Engagement Advisory Council – DC State Coordinator Driver Safety - NC
EDUCATION
Military – New Jersey Army National Guard Winston Salem State University - Bachelor of Science
VISION
Implement, empower and support grassroot legislative campaigns strategically Collaborate with similar organizations’ causes to advance NARFE’s Mission Promote substantial electronic communications and meetings for budgetary reasons Oppose vehemently legislation detrimental to the federal and local communities Promote diverse leadership at all levels for NARFE’s Sustainability
NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS
Active and Retired Federal Employees ... Join NARFE Today!
The only organization dedicated solely to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees, NARFE informs you of any developments and proposals that affect your compensation, retirement and health benefits, AND provides clear answers to your questions. Who Should Join NARFE?
If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits—federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors—you should join NARFE. • Access the NARFE Federal Benefits
Institute for powerful resources to help you fully understand and manage your benefits. • Visit the Legislative Action Center to contact your representatives about bills affecting federal benefits. • Get NARFE Magazine with news and insights for the federal community. • Save time, hassle and money with
NARFE Perks. • The opportunity to get involved at the local level by joining a chapter in your area.
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LOOKING TO MEET OTHERS in the federal community and participate in NARFE at a local level? Call 800-456-8410 to learn about a NARFE chapter in your area. Would you like to receive a FREE one-year chapter membership? Choose one: q Chapter closest to home OR q Chapter #____________
MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? Did someone introduce you to NARFE? Please provide their Name and Member ID.
___________________________________________ Recruiter’s Name
___________________________________________ Recruiter’s Membership ID
NARFE respects the privacy of our members. Personal information is used to provide content and relevant communications to our members, and will not be sold or rented to third parties. (01/21)