July 2025 President’s Message: “YOUR IFMA”
Dear IFMA-GTC Members and Friends,
It is with immense gratitude and excitement that I step into the role of Board President for 2025-2026. I am truly honored to lead this incredible chapter, and I look forward to working alongside each of you to make this a truly impactful year.
As I embark on this journey, I’ve been reflecting on what makes our chapter so special. The answer, unequivocally, is YOU. This leads us to our theme for the year: “YOUR IFMA.” This theme isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a foundational principle that will guide our efforts.
Let’s break down what “YOUR IFMA” means for all of us:
Y is for YOU
You are the reason IFMA-GTC exists. Every event we plan, every resource we offer, every connection we facilitate – it’s all designed with you in mind. You bring diverse experiences, unique gifts, and fresh ideas that are absolutely essential for our chapter’s growth and vibrancy. Whether you’re a long-standing member or new to the chapter, your presence enriches us all. Thank you for being here, for your dedication, and for making our chapter what it is.
O is for Organized
This year, we are committed to enhancing our operational efficiency, particularly with a focus on Member Engagement for both Professionals and Associates. We want to simplify processes and ensure that everyone feels welcomed, integrated, and understands the immense value of their membership from day one. We’re looking at ways to streamline our communications, events, and resources so that accessing the benefits of IFMA-GTC is as seamless as possible. Expect a renewed emphasis on making things simpler, clearer, and more accessible for everyone.
U is for Useful
Our goal is to ensure that your membership is profoundly useful. We’re dedicated to delivering Meetings That Matter – sessions that provide tangible takeaways, foster meaningful discussions, and address the pressing challenges and opportunities within facility management. We aim to be a vital resource for Assisting Professionals in their careers, offering pathways for learning, development, and problem-solving. Furthermore, we will actively work on Connecting Associates with end-users, creating valuable networking opportunities that lead to fruitful collaborations and relationships. Your time is valuable, and we are committed to making every moment you spend with IFMA-GTC worthwhile. With that, your feedback is key! Drop us an email, talk to us in person, send a text, just let us know how we’re doing!
R is for Resilience
Building a strong, sustainable future requires Resilience. This means strategically planning for
Succession Plans within our leadership and committees, ensuring a continuous flow of fresh perspectives and dedicated individuals. It also hinges on robust Member Involvement – the more engaged you are, the stronger our chapter becomes. We’ll be introducing New Board Initiatives designed to strengthen our foundations, expand our reach, and better serve the evolving needs of our members and the FM industry. Your participation in these initiatives will be key to our collective success.
Get Involved!
“YOUR IFMA” truly comes to life when you engage. This year, I strongly encourage you to consider joining one of our committees. Whether it’s Programs, Networking & Events, Young Professionals, Community Outreach, Membership, Communications, Professional Development, Golf, Sponsorships, or Military (NEW for 2025!!) there’s a place for your talents and ideas. It’s an incredible way to expand your network, develop new skills, and directly shape the future of our chapter. Your involvement is invaluable, and we are eager to welcome you.
Finally, to our existing members, thank you for your continued loyalty and dedication. Your support is the backbone of IFMA-GTC. To our new members, welcome! We are thrilled to have you.
I am excited to see what we will achieve together this year. Please feel free to reach out to me or any board member with your thoughts, ideas, and feedback and I hope to see each of you at our July lunch meeting on the 9th. Let’s make this year of “YOUR IFMA” the best yet!
Warmly,
Tatyana (Tanya) Blankenship, CFM, MBA, PMP, ASQ-CQA
President, IFMA-GTC
