It’s hard to believe that almost 12 years ago I was a new staff attorney at NHMA, who didn’t know a deliberative session from a business session! I’ve spent most of my professional career at NHMA and learned everything I know about leadership, advocacy, and policy; met and worked with incredible people; and grown as a person and a professional. It’s even because of this job that I met my husband: a “meet cute” at the legislature, now that’s what I call romantic!
And that’s why it is with a huge array of emotions I am announcing that my time as NHMA’s Executive Director is coming to a close. I’m moving onto my next adventure: I am honored to share that I have been given the opportunity to serve as the next President & CEO of CASA of NH, an organization I’ve volunteered with for many years. My last day here will be July 17.
The transition and hiring process for NHMA’s next Executive Director is already in motion. I’m not only confident our board and staff will ensure the next director is an exceptional fit, but I’m also truly excited for whomever that person may be. Serving in this role is a journey, and so my best advice is, “Oh, the places you’ll go!”
There are so many things I love about local government: the collective power of regular people, a spirit of volunteerism, and nonpartisan problem-solving, to name a few. And though it will be in a different capacity, I will take those same values and beliefs with me in my new role, working with incredible volunteers from across the state who also believe in the power of community, volunteerism, and strong advocacy.
And no matter where I go from here, it will always be true that it all started for me with local government.
So, this isn't goodbye. Whether it’s in your city or town, at the State House, or at event somewhere in New Hampshire, it’s “See you around!”
Sincerely,
Margaret M. L. Byrnes