Meet the New OIF Board Members

Q: What unique qualities or experience do you bring to the Board?

A: I recently retired from a 40-year career as a media specialist, where I was tasked with responsibilities and developed strengths that will allow me to serve successfully. Strategic planning, goal setting, and grant-writing were primary job functions, as well as budget development and the management of local, state, and federal funding. I maintained a strong leadership role with creativity and innovation, and I learned the value of working collaboratively. I recently completed an appointment with a local 501c3 Board of Directors and was able to experience, first-hand, the requirements for effective service. During my time as an Optimist member, I have had the opportunity to grow in leadership through my involvement at the Club, District, and International levels. Through my long-term service, I have gained knowledge and experience that will enhance the Board’s decisionmaking process. The ability to assess issues and developments based on understanding is essential.

Q: What drew you to the Foundation?

A: As an Optimist member for over 30 years, I learned the importance of the Foundation early on, as I progressed from Club Foundation Representative to District Foundation Representative in 2002-2003. In recent years, I have filled positions on the Women’s Philanthropy Council and the Childhood Health and Wellness Grant Committee. Through these levels of participation, I have been able to see firsthand the work that is accomplished and the role that the Foundation plays in our success as Optimists. The OIF is integral in all that we do, and the Foundation Board is critical in planning our direction to ensure the activities that we provide for the young people we serve can be delivered effectively and efficiently. I am excited to be able to contribute to the long-term success of our organization and offer my time, talents and dedication to make a difference.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about serving on the Board?

A: I’m excited to be able to use my skills and expertise as a retired professional and my knowledge as an Optimist to help guide and shape our organization. Innovation will take us into the future as we develop new ideas and solutions for the challenges we face. We must think strategically, but also creatively, to engage our members and keep them informed about the impact of the Foundation and the opportunities that are available. I feel fortunate to be a part of this process. I’m looking forward to working with the members and Clubs in our Districts to help them understand the role and function of the Foundation, so that together we can form stronger partnerships and encourage participation. It’s all about the relationships that we build and how we build them. There are so many heartwarming success stories out there, and I’m looking forward to sharing them with everyone!

Ken Garner

Q: What drew you to the Foundation?

A: One of the positions on the OIF Board of Trustees is reserved for a past Optimist International President, which is voted on by the past OI Presidents. With the past OI President completing his term in this role, the past Presidents asked me to serve based on my financial background and willingness to serve.

Q: What unique qualities or experience do you bring to the Board?

A: Professionally — 30 years as a CPA between Deloitte and Ernst & Young serving as tax consultant to large not-for-profit foundations, hospital systems, state and local governments, as well as high wealth individuals; setting up and maintaining foundations; working with the IRS as both a client advocate and on their advisory board.

Volunteer Board Service — 6 years on the Optimist International Board, 10 years on the OI Youth Programs Foundation Board; multiple terms on North Texas Optimist Executive Committee (4 years as District S/T after being OI President); 12 years on Executive Board for Boy Scouts Longhorn Council (3 years as Audit Chair); 5 years on National Advisory Committee of Boy Scouts; 12 years on Board of Young Texan/Texanne Foundation; and multiple church committees and roles.

Optimist — Served in every elected/appointed role at every level of the organization, including District Foundation Representative and currently serving as Club President again.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about serving on the Board?

A: Optimism is a constant state of change, and we can count on that continuing. Expansion into Japan and continual growth in Nepal shows an international hunger for Optimism. Continual efforts to work with Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions, as well as others, demonstrate a desire to collaborate and find best practices. An ever-expanding entrepreneurial spirit amongst North Americans shows that people not only want new ideas but are taking active steps in these areas. The Foundation must keep pace if not get into the lead in assisting the Optimist movement in these efforts.

The elected folks on the Foundation Board are some great people to work alongside. I’m looking forward to this term with this team.

Good luck to the newest members of the OIF Board of Directors!

Leadership Webinars

Save the dates for our leadership webinars! Webinars are held on the 3rd Monday of each month, beginning at 7 p.m., Central Standard Time. Email leadership@optimist.org for more information.

 May

PGI and PDP—What’s in It for Me?

How do you become a more knowledgeable, involved Optimist? The Personal Growth and Involvement and the Professional Development Programs are your answer. Learn the basics of each program, updates, changes, and how both are designed to promote Member engagement and provide opportunities to improve your leadership and professional skills.

 August

Growing Your Membership Retention through Improving Member Experience

Debra Merritt

Effective May 6, 2021 through September 30, 2023

An exciting presentation that will teach you how to develop an exceptional and engaging membership experience. It will leave your members wanting more – more connection, more belonging, more community, and more Optimism. Do not miss this opportunity!