Executive Director's Report October 2025
It feels like just yesterday we were all in New Orleans for the International Conference and now in just a few days we will welcome over 230 people in Portland, Oregon for the TDM Forum! This event is always one of my favorites, its revamped program allowing in-depth discussion and interactive sessions is truly a unique experience for participants and a fantastic opportunity to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the incredible work happening across our community.
While we’re in Portland, ACT’s Board of Directors will hold its final in-person meeting of the year, focusing on strategic planning for 2026–2029 and reviewing ACT’s budget and work plan for 2026. These conversations are critical to shaping the future of the association, and I deeply appreciate the time and energy our Board members dedicate to ensuring ACT continues to deliver meaningful value and impact to its members.
If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved in your association, now is the time! There’s just one week left to submit your statement of interest to serve on a national Committee of the Board. Committees play such an important role in leading ACT and driving our initiatives forward, and your voice, experience, and vision can make a real difference.
Portland will also be a special moment for our ImpACT! Leadership class of 2025 as we celebrate their graduation. This marks the culmination of nine months of learning, collaboration, and special projects that have made a lasting impact. Congratulations to all of our graduates, I look forward to your continued leadership within the field. If you know a member of this year’s class, be sure to reach out to acknowledge their achievement.
Looking ahead, submissions for ACT’s 2025 Global TDM Impact Report will open soon. This is a great opportunity to showcase the innovative work happening across the industry and highlight the impacts your program is making within your community. Last year’s report was widely distributed to thousands of members, stakeholders, members of congress, US DOT officials, and even a few proud relatives.
As we continue celebrating ACT’s 40th Anniversary, I’ve found myself reflecting on the incredible journey this organization has taken—and my own path within it. My first ACT event goes all the way back to the 1999 TMA Summit in Boston. I had been a member of ACT for less than a year and had jumped in to fill a vacancy as Secretary for the Patriot Chapter. The camaraderie and the welcoming group of professionals (many twice my age) made me quickly realize that ACT was the place for me.
What about you? What was your first ACT experience? Was it a conference, a webinar, a council meeting, or maybe a local event that inspired you to get involved? These stories are what make ACT special, and I’d love to hear yours. Share your memories and join us in celebrating four decades of impact and innovation!
Thank you for being part of this incredible community. I look forward to seeing many of you in Portland and continuing to advance TDM together.