A Message from the Election Committee Chair

Dr. Becca Kasdan’s message in its entirety is reproduced below. Newly elected leaders must read.

Dear National President, Cabinet Members, and State Senators,

Congratulations on your election to leadership within the Volunteer Musicians for the Arts National Student Government for the 2026–2027 year.

Your election is an important achievement, but it is only the beginning. Leadership within VMA is not defined by a title—it is demonstrated through service, stewardship, initiative, and a commitment to helping others succeed.

As Election Committee Chair, I want to remind each of you that the VMA Board of Directors will be looking to our newly elected student leaders to demonstrate their readiness to serve in the months ahead. This summer will be an opportunity for each leader to earn the confidence of the Board through action and show how they will contribute to the growth and success of our organization.

We encourage you to begin working immediately on meaningful plans and initiatives that support VMA’s mission and three pillars: Service, Stewardship, and Leadership.

The Board also encourages each National Officer and State Senator to prepare a preliminary leadership action plan this summer outlining goals related to service, stewardship, leadership, outreach, fundraising, and membership growth.

Responsibilities of Elected Leaders

The Board will be looking for evidence that each elected leader is actively preparing to fulfill the responsibilities associated with their office.

National President

• Develop a proposed agenda for National Council meetings.

• Work with Cabinet members to establish priorities and goals for the year.

• Create plans that advance service, stewardship, leadership, and organizational growth.

• Communicate regularly with State Senators and encourage participation across states.

• Support national initiatives and campaigns.

• Help build a stronger and more connected national community.

National Vice President & Outreach Chair

• Begin connecting with Club Presidents and identifying outreach opportunities.

• Develop ideas for helping clubs remain active and successful.

• Support schools that are forming new clubs.

• Encourage collaboration among chapters and student leaders.

• Promote outreach growth throughout the organization.

National Secretary & Growth Chair

• Develop plans for welcoming and supporting new members and families.

• Create strategies for membership growth and club development.

• Promote orientations, workshops, and leadership opportunities.

• Help expand VMA’s presence into new schools and states.

• Maintain a focus on student engagement and retention.

National Treasurer

• Develop systems for tracking participation and organizational progress.

• Assist with accountability and transparency efforts.

• Help monitor reporting and participation across states and clubs.

• Support the National Council in establishing measurable goals and benchmarks.

• Encourage stewardship throughout the organization.

National Fundraising Chair

• Develop a plan for supporting the Sweet Sounds of Service campaign.

• Identify fundraising and stewardship opportunities for clubs and states.

• Encourage participation in national fundraising initiatives.

• Explore partnerships that advance VMA’s mission.

• Recognize and celebrate fundraising achievements.

State Senators

• Recruit new members, clubs, and future leaders within their state.

• Help identify and mentor future State Senators and club leaders.

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clubs in their state.

• Encourage participation in outreach concerts, service initiatives, and leadership opportunities.

• Promote participation in the Sweet Sounds of Service campaign and other approved fundraising initiatives.

• Support club leaders in fundraising and awareness efforts within their communities.

• Help strengthen communication between local clubs and the National Council.

• Support the growth and visibility of VMA within their state.

Monthly Leadership Reports

In addition to carrying out the responsibilities of their elected office, all National Officers and State Senators are expected to complete their monthly leadership reports.

These reports provide student leaders with an opportunity to document their progress, communicate challenges, share accomplishments, and demonstrate how they are advancing VMA’s mission. The Board will review these reports as one measure of engagement, accountability, and leadership development throughout the year.

Consistent participation, communication, and follow-through are essential responsibilities of every elected leader.

Summer Priorities

As you prepare for the coming year, we encourage leaders to focus on several key priorities:

• Developing plans that advance service, stewardship, and leadership.

• Strengthening communication between clubs, states, and national leadership.

• Expanding VMA into new schools, communities, and states.

• Recruiting new members and identifying future student leaders.

• Supporting outreach opportunities that bring music into the community.

• Promoting participation in the Sweet Sounds of Service campaign.

• Building a stronger and more connected national network of young musicians.

• Identifying potential State Senators and members in states where VMA is still growing.

Board Support and Accountability

Throughout the summer, the Board will periodically review progress and provide guidance and support where needed. Our goal is not simply to fill positions, but to ensure that every elected leader is actively contributing to the mission and growth of VMA.

Student leaders who encounter obstacles are encouraged to communicate proactively and seek support. The Board wants every elected leader to succeed and will work to provide encouragement, mentorship, and resources whenever possible.

At the same time, the Board has a responsibility to ensure that VMA’s programs, clubs, and national initiatives continue to move forward effectively. If leadership responsibilities are not being fulfilled over an extended period of time, the Board may review appointments, responsibilities, or organizational assignments as necessary to ensure continuity of service and support for our members.

Our expectation is not perfection. Rather, we hope to see initiative, communication, effort, and a sincere commitment to serving others through VMA.

Leadership is a sacred trust that carries responsibility and the opportunity to have a tremendous creative and meaningful impact.

We look forward to seeing your ideas, your dedication, and your impact throughout the summer as we prepare for another year of service, stewardship, and leadership.

Thank you for your willingness to serve.

Sincerely,

Becca Kasdan
Election Committee Chair
Volunteer Musicians for the Arts Board of Directors