Happy Spring and a hello from ARRM staff!
Sue Schettle, CEO
Update: In addition to monitoring what is going on this legislative session, Sue is working with the Board to advance some of ARRM's strategic priorities which includes envisioning what the future of disability services in MN might look like. Additionally, she is preparing for upgrades to the membership database and has been working to provide ARRM staff with the best resources possible.
Goal for April: A personal goal is to get back to jogging a few miles before heading into the office. A professional goal is to ensure that we are communicating well about where we are at with our legislative priorities and to help ARRM members predict what to expect next.
What gets you going in the morning?: "I have two dogs (a big one and a small one) that require me to get going in the morning. I'm also an early bird so I'm always the first person in the office and I love my time alone to get my head on straight before the day gets going in full swing."
Contact Sue: sschettle@arrm.org
Sara Grafstrom, Director of State and Federal Policy
Update: Sara is working to advance ARRM's legislative agenda and continues to monitor and respond to legislative proposals that impact members.
Goal for April: Committee deadlines will have come and gone! By the legislative break, we hope to have as many of our legislative proposals as possible still moving through the legislative process!
What gets you going in the morning?: "A crying toddler and a hungry 4 year-old!"
Contact Sara: sgrafstrom@arrm.org
Drew Henry, Director of Strategic Communications
Update: Drew is working hard to support the Best Life Alliance advocacy efforts and educate the public about our issues. This includes contributing to or helping members contribute to several articles across the state over the past several weeks.
Goal for April: To secure a supportive editorial board article!
What gets you going in the morning?: "My son or my dog (or both) get me up in the morning...usually before my alarm goes off."
Contact Drew: dhenry@arrm.org
Ken Bence, Director of Research, Analysis and Policy
Update: Ken is preparing for the Spring BFF coming up on Wednesday. Additionally, he is looking into the impact of certain proposals and bills in the legislature.
Goal for April: To keep up with the legislation working through the pipeline and submit a data request to DHS.
What gets you going in the morning?: "My extremely loud alarm at 5:30am."
Contact Ken: kbence@arrm.org
Ashley Wear, Manager of Member Events and Promotions
Update: Ashley has been preparing for the Annual Conference which is on June 27 and registration is currently open!
Goal for April: We hope to have speakers and session details to share as soon as possible.
What gets you going in the morning?: "Two rambunctious bulldogs and an extra-large iced coffee!"
Contact Ashley: awear@arrm.org
Madeleine Lerner, Grassroots Organizer
Update:Madeleine is working on Day at the Capitol follow-ups and advancing member relations on social media.
Goal for April: With the legislative break fast approaching, we're making sure that we have town halls with legislators organized.
What gets you going in the morning?: "My very communicative dog and coffee. Lots and lots of coffee."
Contact Madeleine: mlerner@arrm.org
Savannah Hanley, Manager of Member Services
Update: Savannah is handling all things related to ARRM Cares (deadline to nominate for 2019 is March 31). Look out for updates on ARRM's social media profiles!
Goal for April: The overall objective is to become more familiar with our online system and continue to build relationships with members.
What gets you going in the morning?: "I like to watch Good Mythical Morning on YouTube. It's a good laugh and a great way to start the day!"
Contact Savannah:shanley@arrm.org
Back L-R: SH, ML, AW, DH.
Front L-R: KB, SS, SG.