Terms like “unprecedented,” “uncertain,” and “tumultuous” seem trite at this point, having almost lost their ability to articulate life amid a pandemic. At various moments over the last six months, I couldn’t help but think, “Of all the years for me to be NERA President, it had to be this one.” Yet, I also feel fortunate. As I look at graduating seniors who longed to walk across a stage, or Olympic athletes who trained their entire lives to peak at a particular moment—only to have those chances taken away—I do feel a sense of understanding. After all, looking back at past issues of The Researcher, this is typically the article where the President summarizes much of the work of the past year and highlights the elements of this year’s conference to which they are looking forward.

With regard to those accomplishments, let me say how proud I am of NERA’s Leadership in shepherding us through these times. The Officers, Board Members, Conference Team, and Committee Members have been so gracious and read more