Life is fluid. Ever-changing. Never static. Change can be scary or exciting or even mind-blowing but one thing is certain. There is no such thing as the status quo. And things are changing here in Nevada. My co-regional advisor, Suzy Williams, has given much to the Nevada chapter of the SCBWI. Without her, I might never have come on-board as a regional advisor. But here I am. Together, Suzy and I have created amazing programming in the Silver State, and I will always be grateful, not only for our partnership, but much, much more, for our friendship.



So I am a bit saddened to say that life is calling Suzy elsewhere. As of July 1st, she is stepping down as co-regional advisor to pursue her career more diligently, and devote more time to her family. She promises she won't go far, however, and I plan on tapping her experience, energy and smarts as I move the Nevada chaper of the SCBWI into the future. Helping me as assistant regional advisor will be Jenny Mackay, who has been our co-northern Nevada coordinator and newsletter editor for some time. She is young, brilliant and organized, and I am genuinely grateful that she has agreed to step into this role.



In other supporting roles are Tracy Clark and Heather Petty, co-northern Nevada coordinators; Sharon Mann and Bri Wilson, co-southern Nevada Coordinators; and Cindy Kremsner, our illustrator coordinator. Each is valued for her insight, oversight and vision. Thanks so much, ladies.



Together we will forge ahead. Our highly successful Nevada SCBWI Mentor Program, novel retreat  and annual conferences will continue, along with some new programming specifically targeted toward illustrators and published members. None of this would be possible without the support of the SCBWI International organization, nor without the framework built by my friend, Suzy Williams. Godspeed, m'dear. And you can bet I'll be calling you for advice very soon.



To the future!

Ellen Hopkins