President's Remarks - Fall 2025

It has been a busy and productive two months since our Career Development Seminar (“CDS”) in Houston, Texas. I’d like to take a moment to share what several of our committees have been working on.

The Meetings & Elections Committee, chaired by Chrystal Bartuska, has successfully negotiated a contract for our 2027 event, which is now under review and vote by the Executive Committee. The Membership & Benefits Committee, led by Brett Bache, has been diligently updating the State Chair Handbook—a vital resource for our state chairs across the country. These revisions are also currently under Executive Committee review. Meanwhile, the MCM/AMCM Committee, chaired by Shelly Schuman, has been auditing the Behavioral Health Parity Accreditation Core 2 modules in preparation for expanding the next section of the accreditation program to all IRES members.

As I mentioned in my remarks at CDS, you—the members—are IRES. Our organization thrives on your engagement and ideas. I encourage each of you to get involved by joining a committee and helping shape the future of IRES.

Looking ahead, my goals for the next ten months are straightforward but meaningful. First, it’s time to update our bylaws, which were last revised in 2016. With the rapid pace of technological advancement, evolving committee responsibilities, and innovative initiatives over the past decade, a refresh is long overdue. My second goal is to reignite member enthusiasm for all that IRES has to offer. As a lifelong learner, I find great value in our continuing education opportunities. For others, it may be the networking, professional growth, or personal connections that make IRES special. Whatever it is that excites you—find it and dive in.

Finally, as we approach the holiday season, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on gratitude. This year has brought both personal and professional challenges for me, but I am deeply thankful for resilience, for supportive colleagues and friends, for family, and for good health. I hope you, too, find time to appreciate the people and moments that bring meaning to your life.

Warm regards,

Mary Nugent

President, IRES

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