Page 4 - The EDGE Winter 2025

PRESIDENT’S REFLECTION

BY FRANCIE WOLFE-BAUMANN
Honoring the Legacy of a Rock Star

Francie Wolfe-Baumann
Unprecedented times. I've heard those words so One of my favorite memories was last July when,
many times in the past month from colleagues, despite being on crutches with an injured knee, Brian
acquaintances, and friends. I have muttered them to took the stage at our Annual Conference to drum
myself as both a reminder and a means of granting alongside our keynote speaker. To say that Brian
grace to myself and to others. slayed it is an understatement. His status as a literal
As an organization, we are experiencing the drastic Rock Star was cemented in more ways than one.
difference between change and unprecedented times.
There is no handbook, by-law or guide on how to
manage, let alone live through, the sudden passing of
our Executive Director. No succession plan prepares
you for when your heart is heavy and an organization
is mourning.
Grief is personal, affecting each of us in different
ways. As an organization, we must allow space for
that – space to process, to reflect, and, in time, find a
path forward. This issue of The Edge is a part of that
honoring and healing process.
Brian’s contributions to AASBO were nothing
short of transformative. Under his leadership,
relationships with organizations and businesses were
strengthened, the professional development program
was reimagined, and initiatives like the Women’s "Brian’s contributions to AASBO
Executive Leadership Development Series were
launched. He led with vision and passion, ensuring were nothing short of transformative."
our mission wasn’t just words on a page but a call - Francie Wolfe-Baumann
to action that bettered school business officials and,
ultimately, the students we serve. Brian loved AASBO. While we can no longer turn to
Beyond his professional achievements, Brian was an him for guidance, he left so much of his wisdom and
individual with unparalleled character. His ethical heart to light our way. Let us draw strength from the
standards were influential, his words always uplifting, example he set for us all.
and his faith unshakable. He led with heart, grace, Brian’s legacy reminds us that true leadership is about
and integrity, setting a standard for all of us to strive the lives you touch. He touched more lives than he
toward. could ever know and for that, we are forever grateful.

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4 THE EDGE WINTER 2025