The Meaning of Monterey

by Heather Hundley, Past President

Let’s reflect upon another successful conference as we remember Monterey 2011. Pat Ganer did an outstanding job organizing all the panels and requests. We were fortunate to have such a wonderful space, the Hyatt Regency, which lent to numerous panels and activities throughout the four days we were there. I can’t commend local host Marnel Niles enough for her accommodating style, sense of professionalism, and cheerful approach. Her students were excellent and CSU Fresno should be proud of the exceptional job they did. In fact, as the local host from Palm Springs 2006, we concede to Marnel and her students for putting on “the best sock hop ever!” Fresno has now laid the gauntlet down to University of New Mexico for local hosting in Albuquerque 2012.

Now, what does Monterey mean? It means something different to every one of us. For me, it takes on special meaning because it was where I served the association as the president. It was where my Ph.D. advisor, Dr. Robert Avery, received the association’s coveted Outstanding Service Award. It was where I delivered my presidential address on Power and Communication. The conference in Monterey allowed me to rekindle old friendships and start to build new ones. I remain in admiration and respect of my colleagues who are also my friends. While some folks may think that these conferences blur together, I urge you to think beyond the pattern and ferret out the nuances that make them special. As I surveyed the crowds at the welcome reception, sock hop, and luncheon, I thought back to Monterey 1997 (the last time we were there). So many changes have occurred; we have lost and gained some great colleagues and we have overcome some challenges (personally and professionally).

I look forward to 2012 in Albuquerque which also holds special meaning to me. It was my first conference (1993) as a MA student. It was my mentor’s last conference (2003) before she passed away. It will be the location of my last term in office as past president. Please take a moment to reflect upon what WSCA conferences mean to you, they are much, much more than sites of scholarship.