A Message from our President

Only a month ago, TACAC leadership was preparing for our annual trip to Washington, D.C. to meet with the offices of Texas representatives and senators. We were organized and prepared to discuss the needs of Texas. We had information in hand to share on student to counselor ratios, funding of programs, and a passion to speak for our members. Later that week, conversation switched to the possible cancellation of NACAC College Fairs and State and Regional Affiliate Conferences. To say it was a whirlwind week would be an understatement.

As we enter April 2020, we were expecting to be returning to our offices invigorated from our annual conference. However, as I am composing this message to you, the Governor of Texas has recommended schools close until May 4, 2020. For many of us over the last month we have transitioned to a work-from-home environment. In the last few weeks, we have all gained a new appreciation for our Regional Admissions Counselors around the state who expertly manage their work environments. Throughout this time, our TACAC Committees have been working diligently to make sure our members are connected to one another. TACAC Coffee Chats, a webinar on working from home, and emails coordinating the move of conference sessions to an online webinar series began to take form. For we
knew, that while our work environment changed, the need for up-to-date information was critical for everyone.

On Monday, March 30, 2020 we held our first ‘virtual’ passing of the gavel. While I sat in my home, inches from my husband, daughter and son, I accepted the gavel to lead TACAC. A unique and different experience than what I was expecting, but also a very special moment. I am honored and humbled to serve in this role, especially now.

There are many things we will not know for the coming weeks – When will we return? What will colleges and universities do for the class of 2020? What impact will future classes experience because of the current environment? What I do know is that TACAC members are engaging in these conversations in a variety of online arenas. From social media to TACAC chats and work with other organizations, we are leading this conversation in a variety of ways. We are leaders in our schools and institutions that others look to for support and guidance. I am one of those people. I am looking to you to engage with TACAC in big and small ways. The TACAC Executive Board and I will continue working throughout the spring and summer to bring to you new ways to share your experience and voice in
shaping the future of our profession.

It is my goal that in the next year, we will be able to engage TACAC members in new, creative ways. Both in the professional development we provide and in the various formats that bring our resources to individuals around the state. Thank you for your support and please continue to look for TACAC emails and social media posts. Our conference theme this year was ‘Watch What Happens’ and now I feel that we are going to ‘Make It Happen’ together.

Marisol Scheer, President 2020-2021