I met with the new Executive Director in Washington DC on Monday. Our conversation was spirited, varied, and far reaching. I either dissuaded him of the idea that I am the parking devil incarnate, at least as far as some of his members are concerned, or confirmed the rumors he had heard.
Shawn is a likable person. He’s quiet, thoughtful, and smart. I feel that if he is allowed his head at the IPI, only good things will happen.
Naturally, I asked about PR and how the IPI was handling it, since it has been nonexistent in the past. He told me he recognized the problem and they are in the process of finding a PR firm to assist in promoting the organization and its activities. Excellent first step.
I gathered from his part of the conversation that he is going to focus on membership out of the blocks. I noted that the organization’s numbers have been fairly static and he noted that the board was extremely interested in outreach. Right on.
This is a new venture for the IPI. It has a professional as the head of the organization. The board would do well to listen to his ideas and then take them. They have hired his experience. Let him use it.
JVH
