Page 49 - 2016 April Voices

2016-17 District 7 Candidates

Office: Division E Director

Emilie Taylor, CC, CL

Division E Director

I’m honored to be nominated as a candidate for Division E Director.

I found Toastmasters when I needed it the most. It has taken me out of years
of darkness of grief and sadness after losing my son. Toastmasters gave me
an opportunity for personal growth where I could step out, step up, and step
forward back into the world. It helped me say yes to volunteerism, personal growth, and trans-
formation. I know this is all volunteer work, but such volunteerism has completely changed my
life. Every speech I had delivered, every role I volunteered has grown my speaking skills and
improved my leadership skills. It helped me learn better communication and negotiation skills.
Toastmasters has given me renewed optimism. Hence, my desire to continue serving as a dis-
trict officer and pay it forward.

I bring a combination of unique perspectives to this position. My professional and volunteer
experiences have given me the opportunity to work closely with different organizations. As a
former state supervisor for grants administration and liaison for federal grants in Washington,
DC, I learned to work with many special interest groups. As a former program coordinator
for crisis intervention, I learned how to deal with difficult situations, think on my feet and
develop listening skills that carry forward in the role as a Division Director. More recently, in
my capacity as an Area 65 Director, I visited all 6 clubs on a regular basis. I learned that each
club has unique challenges and opportunities for growth. It forces me to be creative in finding
solutions. I am a dedicated and tireless supporter of the mission of Toastmasters.

My vision is to see Division E continue to grow and attract new members. I would like to build
on past achievements and successes and to find creative ways to help clubs that are struggling
become places where members are excited and inspired. I would like to see monthly area direc-
tors’ meetings continued. It is important that area directors are supported and acknowledged for
the work that they do. These meetings also allow the space to tackle issues such as generational
differences among members in which gaps must be bridged. By working closely with Area
Directors, my hope is that we find ways to uplift and help the clubs that need it the most and
put shine on the clubs that are doing well and acknowledge their efforts. Sharing successes will
certainly benefit the rest of the Division and ultimately, the District.

Thank you for your consideration.

Volume 2 Issue 10 - APRIL 2016 49