Message from the President – January 2024

19 Jan Message from the President – January 2024

FLAVA President’s Message– January 2024

Dear Members of FLAVA,

As we step into 2024, I extend my sincere gratitude for the privilege of leading this dynamic community of language educators. The confidence you’ve placed in me is truly humbling. I want to express my appreciation to all World Language educators, whether members or not, for your dedication and passion that enrich our community.

A special acknowledgement to everyone, members, volunteers, and affiliates alike, who
generously contribute their time and expertise beyond the Advisory Council and Executive
Board. Your commitment exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines FLAVA.

In the coming months of this new year, I envision a FLAVA that thrives on inclusivity and shared achievements. Let’s work together, united as language educators, to make 2024 a standout chapter in our collective journey. It is crucial, now more than ever, to advocate for equitable access to world language education. House bills continue to emerge that pose potential threats to undermine the crucial role of world language education from elementary to university levels, impacting the equitable distribution of educational opportunities for all Virginians. This education is integral to shaping the profile of a Virginia graduate and nurturing 21st-century global citizens. World Language education is not just a component but a catalyst for the holistic growth of Virginia and this nation. Your collective advocacy and engagement are paramount in safeguarding the future of language education and ensuring that every Virginian, regardless of background, has equal access to the invaluable skills and perspectives it provides.

A heartfelt thank you to my predecessor, Heidi Trude, for her exceptional leadership and contributions. Your dedication has set a high standard, and I am inspired to continue building upon the foundation you’ve crafted.

A special acknowledgment to those who’ve volunteered to serve on the Executive Board and Advisory Council. Your commitment exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines FLAVA.
President-Elect: Beth Marshall
Communications Coordinator: Holly Fitterer
Treasurer: Kathryn Murphy-Judy
Conference Coordinator: Virginia Kibler
Immediate Past President: Heidi Trude

In addition to these new board members, we welcome the following individuals to the FLAVA Advisory Council and Vision Team:

Advocacy: Sharon Scinicariello
Membership: Lisa Fore
Nominations: Thomas Sones
Awards: Kelly Arble
Professional Development: Jen Carson
Historian: Shirley Hall
Mentor Program: Shane Goodpasture
Parliamentarian: Jen Carson
Webmaster: Angela Gunder
Website Editor: Diana Erazo
Conference Committee – Exhibitor Chair: Cherie Duma
Conference Committee – Presenter Liaison: Sue Roberston
Conference Committee – Affiliates Liaison: Dali Tan
Conference Committee – Volunteers: Aliea Lewis

A warm welcome is extended to these outstanding individuals, who are diligently working to support you and fellow language educators across Virginia and beyond. I express heartfelt appreciation to our outgoing Executive Board and Advisory Council Members, Amanda Romjue, Morgan Bennett, Paloma Sugg, and Martha Davis, for their dedicated service to FLAVA.

Notably, we are fortunate to continue benefiting from their expertise as they actively assist in the smooth transition for their successors. Their commitment ensures a seamless continuation of the invaluable work they have contributed to FLAVA.

I would like to bring your attention to some upcoming events and noteworthy updates in our language education community:

FLAVA Workshops:
Continue to register and attend the fantastic FLAVA Workshops skillfully arranged by our
Teacher Education Leader, Jen Carson! The next workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, February 13, at 4:30 PM, focusing on “Learning to unlearn: A testimony around Inclusive Non-Binary Language in Spanish classes.”

FLAVA Spring Conference – April 20, 2024:
Save the date! Plans are under way for our annual Saturday FLAVA Spring Conference on April 20, 2024, at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA. This event provides a great getaway for language educators across the state, offering a wonderful opportunity for a professional development retreat with great people. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!

Fall FLAVA Conference – October 10-12, 2024:
Plans are already underway for the Fall FLAVA Conference, which is on year 2 of 3 years in Norfolk, Virginia Marriott. This year’s conference is scheduled from October 10 to October 12, 2024. Mark your calendars and look for more information to come!

SCOLT 2024 in Atlanta, GA – March 7-9, 2024:
Elevate, innovate, and celebrate at SCOLT 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia, from March 7 to March 9, 2024.

NECTFL Conference – 70th Anniversary – February 22-24, 2024:
Don’t miss the NECTFL Conference’s 70th Anniversary celebration, taking place from February 22 to February 24, 2024, at the New York Hilton Midtown. The theme is “Our Butterfly Effect: Creating a Lasting Impact.”

These events offer valuable opportunities for professional development, networking, and celebration within our language education community. We look forward to your active participation and engagement.

In closing, let us seize these opportunities for growth and connection. Your active participation and engagement are vital to the success of our language education community. Together, we will create lasting impacts and build a future where language education thrives. Here’s to a year of collaboration, celebration, and continued learning.

Warm regards,
Eric Jaworski
President, FLAVA