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Relevant Personal Characteristics
§ Political Awareness and Demeanor: Over the last several years I have demonstrated the poise,
tact and charisma to be the external voice of CASA now and for the future. An acute political
acumen and awareness of the implications of actions taken on behalf of CASA is one of my
defining characteristics. In the realm of advocacy, understanding how actions will be perceived
by multiple groups and being able to maintain the reputation of the organization while
vigorously fighting for our members’ interests is one of the primary roles of the Executive
Director, and I have demonstrated that understanding consistently in my time at CASA.
§ Issue Identification and Prioritization: As the Committee may have been able to discern from
my DISC profile, and as those who have worked with me could testify, I have a keen ability to
quickly analyze situations, identify critical issues, and prioritize actions. This has served me well
in the advocacy context, particularly in an area as frequently complex as water quality and is an
essential attribute for the new Executive Director.
§ Knowledge of the Issues: I have knowledge and understanding of current environmental issues
facing California. More importantly, I have specific knowledge of the key issues facing the
wastewater community and CASA members that few, if any, others can match. I communicate
with our members on a regular basis regarding what they are seeing on the ground in their
communities, what policies might be affecting them at the state and regional levels, and how
they are dealing with those challenges. Due to my time with the organization and breadth of
experience within it, I don’t believe anyone has a higher level of this type of specific knowledge
when it comes to CASA issues.
§ Process Improvement and Keeping CASA’s Edge: Bringing process improvements to our work is
a core part of how I have approached my current position and would continue to be a part of my
approach to leading the organization. Increasing participation in our committees and
workgroups, and focusing our internal and external communications, have been high priorities
in my time at CASA. I hope to bring a fresh, progressive approach to the organization while
respecting the appropriate pace of change given our membership base and expectations.
§ Staff Engagement: CASA staff is the reason we are able to perform at such a high level and bring
such great value to our members. Keeping the staff engaged, satisfied, and making them feel
included in changes of significance to the organization is crucial to being the next Executive
Director. The current Executive Director has done an incredible job of being inclusive about all
aspects of the organization and having an “open door” on all matters, and I hope to continue
that same approach.