Annual General Meeting of the Members

Posted on Posted in Member News

February 23, 2018

Dear Sangha,

Thanks to all the MCPS members who attended (and sent their proxies in for) this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the membership. We had a great turnout and accomplished what we needed to – the 2018 budget was approved, new Board officers were elected, and important safety plans were discussed. Membership numbers are strong, finances are solid, and our foundational documents are in order.

The meeting was a time to express gratitude for all those who envisioned and worked hard to create MCPS and our beautiful practice center Dharma Gate.  After greeting each other, we celebrated our past year together. It is truly amazing what this dedicated group of meditators can accomplish in twelve months!

Please click here to be reminded of the highlights of 2017 at MCPS  

I’m especially excited about the composition of our new Board – it has great continuity with: Ricco staying on as Treasurer, Jessica continuing as our Communications Coordinator, and John Malcomson switching over to be the Liaison for Meditation and Mindfulness (this position is the important link between the Board to the Practice Committee). Ellie Graham and Tom Ledcke will continue as the MCPS representatives to the MCPS-TTS Joint Facilities Committee and continue to lead MCPS efforts to preserve and maintain our beautiful practice center Dharma Gate. Cristina Mullen continues to maintain Dharma Gate’s electronic calendar and schedule use of the center—a behind-the-scenes role that is key. Our new Board members bring fresh energy and skills to the mix: Lisa Kelly as Secretary, Adam Kessler and Mary Schlichter sharing the Membership Coordinator role and Heather Rosewarne in the new position of Registrar for the Sangha.

In addition, I want to mention the fabulous job Adam and Elizabeth are doing to organize our 2018 annual MCPS retreat at Camp Indianola. Bows to Fran for her service as Board secretary over the past two years and good luck with your upcoming shoulder surgery and recovery!

I will be stepping down from the Board president position. For me, serving on the Board has been a very deep practice of Sangha connection. I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity to engage with so many of you. We have not yet identified a candidate to take my place. Is that person you? I will be very happy to mentor and support you on this path. Useful qualifications include:  a year or more of active participation in Sangha activities; not serving at the same time in another demanding MCPS leadership role; previous, similar experience on non-profit Boards; time and energy to prepare for and facilitate meetings; and the desire to know and connect with the Sangha more deeply.  If this describes you, take the plunge and talk to me or others on the Board before our March 5 transition meeting.

With love and gratitude,

Robbie

PS: Exciting events planned for the year ahead include:  

  • Genevieve’s guided meditation series,
  • the annual April retreat at Camp Indianola led by Peggy Rowe-Ward and Larry Ward,
  • an early May two-day Practice Leadership Training led by Jon Prescott,
  • a June Day of Mindfulness led by honored guest Imam Jamal Rahman,
  • a September Non-Residential Retreat with the theme Dharma Friendship led by Mike Melancon and Jon Prescott,
  • a series of events in September and October focused on History and Trauma from an Indigenous Lens inspired by Sharyne, and
  • a possible return to Seattle by Rev. angel Kyodo williams in November or December.
  • And for 2019:  Dharma teacher Kaira Jewel will be leading our annual retreat at Camp Indianola.