Fellow Toastmasters and Friends,

Author Ben Sweetland said, "We cannot hold a torch to light another's path without brightening our own." I believe we shine a light on the path of others when we help others improve. Our own lives are enriched through the experience.

This is an exciting and challenging time for our organization. As Toastmasters Leaders, we are called to continually expand our membership and network of clubs providing opportunities for more people to learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking. As members improve their communication skills, they also develop and hone leadership skills.

The strategic plan for Toastmasters International calls for:

• Consistently achieving membership growth.
• Increasing the recognition of Toastmasters International as expert in the fields of communication and leadership.
• Becoming as well known for leadership development as for communication development.
• Providing programs that are adaptable for different generations and cultures, and for emerging technologies.
• Achieving global market penetration.
• Achieving excellence in the quality and consistency of programs, products, processes and services throughout the organization.