ATPE is proud to bring you this series of posts from your board members. The ATPE Board of Directors is made up of 20 regional members, who are elected by their constituents; four state officers, who are elected annually by the entire House of Delegates at the ATPE Summit; and the most recent state past president. Board members were sent questions via email, and their responses will be posted to the ATPE Blog in the order they were received. Today’s post is from Region 11 director Karen Hames.

How and why did you get involved in a leadership role at ATPE?

I became a campus rep because another teacher asked for help delivering information to my school. I didn’t even know her personally at the time, but since then we have become great friends. You just never know who will take a job until you ask :) I became a local officer because I began attending local meetings, and no one stepped up when they needed someone. I thought, “How much work can it be?” Silly me! I became a Region 11 officer when our secretary moved out of state. By this time I thought, “Why not me?"

What is your favorite part of serving on the ATPE board?

I’ve only attended one meeting thus far, but it was amazing how quickly I bonded with the other members of the board. What a great group of people! I look forward to learning and growing through their wisdom and experience.

How has being on the board helped your region?

Already I have been able to help make some decisions as well as give some advice based on my newfound knowledge. I also feel better equipped to begin helping to revive and assist some local units that might need a boost of energy.

What advice would you give to others who might be interested in serving on the board?

If you have the passion for ATPE, go for it. Talk to current and previous board members to learn as much as you can about the responsibilities so you’ll be better prepared once you get elected and begin serving.

Can you share something fun about yourself that our members might not know?

I own and ride a Harley and have for many years. I bought my FXR new in 1984 and have ridden it all over the United States. For those who ride, I don’t trailer. Riding has given me a wonderful perspective of this great country of ours that I couldn’t have gotten any other way.