Happy New Year!

Dear FEW Member,

As 2020 draws to a close, I want to send a special note of appreciation to you the FEW membership.  You are why the National Board of Directors and I go so hard for our mission.   This year, we faced with enormous challenges as our nation, agencies and homes have as well.  But as I have stated throughout this year “it is in time of darkness when we show ourselves adaptable and strong.”  2020 has been a year like none other – with quarantines, travel bans, drive by graduations, health emergencies, loss of jobs, homes and people.  Yet, although we are saddened, all is not lost because of our membership and their special gifts, FEW stands with the many heroes of our nation, from the critical healthcare workers, scientists, grocery store attendants, PPE industrial industries and all the other critical workers that kept us going.  We thank you and send our appreciation. 

Being elected as National President of Federally Employed Women for a second term is by far the highest honor of my professional career and one that astonishes me.  As National President of the great organization, I want to personally thank you for your membership.  It means the world to FEW and we think of you in every decision made to ignite our torches for FEW.  As we look forward to a bright and prosperous 2021, FEW will continue to soar because you are wind that pushes us forward. We have some amazing activities planned to ensure we go even higher. 

In advance, I want to take this opportunity to thank the Administrative staff of CMA for the tremendous effort they put forward day-to-day in allowing us to help so many of our members. Many of us do not see all the demands placed on our office, but their work is greatly appreciated.   I know that the small investment in transitioning our office to CMA will lead FEW into a bright and new future and we will lead the pay in equity and inclusion of women.

To the National Board members, I also thank them for their dedication to the success of the FEW and for their tremendous input to the proper governance of our organization. And, I want to especially acknowledge the participation of our Regions and Chapters membership.  You have committed endless hours of volunteer time to make sure our members are provided with opportunities to continue learning, to network and socialize with other credit professionals for opportunities in career advancement and pay equity.

Lastly, to everyone invested with FEW, my sincere appreciation for your support and the pride you demonstrate everyday by representing this elite organization “working for the advancement of women in the government.”  You are the source of our strength for FEW and make my job satisfying and easy.  It is my pleasure to wish you and your family a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year and to remind you that FEW is “Soaring to New Heights.”

Karen Rainey, National President