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THE PRESIDENT'S VIEWThe 2014 Triennial Convention at Charleston culminated in an outstanding, productive, and stimulating event, from start to finish. The opening ceremonies incorporated central aspects of Pi Gamma Mu. The roll call of chapters brought to mind our wide reach as delegates of each chapter stood for recognition. Attendees from the U.S., the Philippines, and Canada attested to our international status. The presentation of stuffed animals brought by convention attendees and given to My Sister's House, Inc. reflected the service component expressed in our mission. The paper presentations provided realization of the scholarship component of our mission; paper-after-paper demonstrated excellence in research and writing skills. The Chapter Development Poster session permitted chapters to showcase the incredible inspiration and energy that yields remarkable accomplishments. Other diverse sessions focused on pertinent topics, such as chapter development, graduate school preparation, and alumni participation. Participants learned about the Charleston area through the demonstration session of the indigenous art of sweetgrass baskets. The Saturday afternoon tour provided a sort of culminating experience for social scientists, as participants joined together to learn about the political, social, and historical aspects of Charleston. While all of these events contributed to the convention, the opportunity to interact with like-minded social scientists remained a significant highlight. Members and sponsors shared incredible enthusiasm for Pi Gamma Mu. Truly, their dedicated work makes Pi Gamma Mu a dynamic and thriving honor society. In conjunction with the convention, the Board of Trustees conducted their annual meeting, resulting in important outcomes. Led by Jean Karlan, the Board committed significant time to strategic planning. The Board also committed to continued support of existing chapters and development of new ones; under Gordon Mercer's leadership. Further action of the board resulted in a decision to raise the membership fee to $50. This increase, the first since 2006, permits the society to keep pace with inflation and increasing costs. Plans call for the full implementation of the increase in September 2015. Thank you to the planners and to all the participants who made the convention so successful and special. In the "life" of Pi Gamma Mu, a convention closes one three-year cycle and starts a new one. The success of the convention suggests the start of a new cycle, full of promise. C. Laurence "Larry" Heck
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