Marla J. Mitchell
Candidate
My name is Marla J. Mitchell, and I am running for the position of Secretary of the NABSE Parent Commission. I am enthusiastic, prepared, and dedicated to improving both the educational experiences and accomplishments of African American youth through the development and use of instructional and motivational methods that increase levels of inspiration, attendance, and overall achievement, along with developing programming that are strategically designed and relevant to the current needs of students and educators.
I have held the position of secretary for multiple organizations, one being Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter. I understand that my role as secretary of the Parent Commission would be to:
- take the minutes of the meeting according to agreed conventions and ensure that the necessary follow up action is taken;
- to manage the committee’s business by preparing agendas in liaison with the chair, monitoring the progress and scheduling of the committee’s business, and ensuring that meetings run smoothly according to the guidelines;
- to be thoroughly familiar with the committee’s terms of reference so that appropriate advice on the committee’s business in relation to them can be given on them when needed;
- to advise the chair on issues relating to the committee and to ensure that the chair is well informed;
- 5.) to be aware of the wider context in which the committee operates and being able to relate its business to the parent commission’s strategic priorities; and
- to brief the committee chair before the meeting to ensure that any difficulties in transacting business are anticipated and appropriate strategies for managing them identified.
My evaluations have always noted my strengths as being creative thinking, problem solving, strong long-range planning, and the ability to communicate with a diverse population. I have been affiliated with and worked in NABSE since 2001. As a dedicated NABSE conference and staff volunteer, and employee (Director of Operations, 2006), these experiences and opportunities have enabled me to strengthen strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills, which allow me to cultivate a supportive environment and reinforce the organization’s standards, policies, mission, vision and goals. With experience in program initiatives, optimizing the learning atmosphere, staff development, and promoting a safe environment, my strengths and abilities are exactly what you are looking for to fill the position as the Secretary of the NABSE Parent Commission.
