As COVID-19 continues to affect daily life, adjustments are made. As chapter events are canceled, postponed, altered, or in some instances, created, boards must direct the chapter and ensure planning for future contingencies. That is exactly what they have done.

Chapter boards have continued to lead during the COVID-19 crisis. Board members have met, either by teleconferencing, or, what now seems like ancient technology, via conference calls. Future success of the chapter has been planned. Chapter leaders have stepped up when needed; and they have delivered superbly.

Chapters in the Great Lakes region have held emergency board meetings to address how the current state-of-affairs is affecting their operating procedures. The interaction and communication with members have been second to none across the region. Local chapter members have been well-versed on chapter and board activities as well as plans moving forward. Upcoming events have been addressed, status of scholarships and member benefits have been communicated, fundraisers have been postponed. These are just a few of the items board members have addressed, modified and worked diligently on over the past few months.

Working with industry partners is a large part of any chapter operation. Industry partner support and successful chapters go hand in hand. Industry partners have always been a great resource for GCSAA and chapter members; this uncertain time is no different. Chapter boards have increased communication with industry partners to ensure their successful partnerships continue and flourish.

University professors have also played a huge part in the success of chapters in recent months. Utilizing leading industry experts, university scientists have been able to increase communication with chapter members and offer valuable resources as superintendents navigate their facility operations.

Chapter leaders have also stepped up their communication with allied associations. While these relationships vary from area to area, the COVID-19 situation has allowed chapter leaders to develop or improve these relationships in some instances. Allied associations coming together to speak on behalf of golf with one voice was and is critical moving forward.

Finally, this post cannot end without mentioning the compassion chapter leaders have shown each other, their members and the industry partners who support the chapters. From the onset, member health and well-being were always the priorities. This continues presently and will continue moving forward. There are always positive occurrences in any situation, GCSAA and chapter members once again showcasing their benevolence is one of these occurrences. These volunteer chapter leaders showcased exemplary leadership, professional and concern; the industry is better because of every one of them. I have always been humbled and proud to represent and be a part of this industry, working with the chapter leaders and thousands of members who make up the region these past few months has only reiterated that fact. Stay well!