On May 20-21, the AVMA hosted the first of five orientation programs for executive directors of organizations in the AVMA House of Delegates.

The purpose of the 1½-day program was to give the 12 association executives a better understanding of how the AVMA is structured and the scope of responsibilities managed in each AVMA division.

In addition to division staff presentations, an informal discussion session gave attendees the opportunity to interact with AVMA staff about current issues at the state level.

Orientation attendees left Schaumburg well informed about AVMA activities and resources. Bland O'Connor, executive director of the Louisiana VMA, stated, " The program was an outstanding educational experience on the organization and culture of the AVMA."

Asked what he liked best about the program, Ron Sohn, executive director of the Maryland VMA answered, "The most important thing was understanding the connection between the AVMA and the Maryland Veterinary Medical Association and how our organizations complement each other by meeting our missions and membership objectives."

A second orientation program is scheduled for September. Two additional programs will be scheduled in 2005 and one in 2006 to give every association in the HOD the opportunity to participate in this AVMA-funded program.