A Grateful Farewell and a Strong Future Ahead

After 50 years with Cascade Employers Association, including the past 14 as President, I find myself writing something I’ve always known would come, but never quite imagined would feel this meaningful. On June 30, 2026, I’ll be stepping into retirement.

I joined Cascade in 1976 as a receptionist, just out of high school. Like most people starting their first job, I had no idea it would turn into a 50-year career. Things looked a little different back then. Employees could smoke at their desks, and my early responsibilities ranged from running errands for our then-President to spending hours filing tissue-thin pages into legal resource books. After a few days of that, I wasn’t entirely sure I’d found my calling. It was a different time in more ways than one, and fortunately, things only got better from there.

Cascade’s work then focused primarily on labor relations and personnel management. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching that evolve into what we now know as human resource management and leadership development, along with the growing complexity and influence of the profession itself. Through it all, one thing has remained constant: the importance of good people doing good work.

Along the way, I’ve worked with so many talented and dedicated colleagues, and experienced moments I never would have predicted. One that still stands out was picking up our annual conference keynote speaker from the airport: Clarence Thomas, who at the time was serving as Chair of the EEOC. Not your typical airport pickup, and certainly one I didn’t see coming when I started at the front desk.

It’s hard to sum up five decades in a few paragraphs, but what stands out most to me isn’t any one milestone. It’s the people. Our members, our Board, and our staff have shaped Cascade into something truly special. I’m incredibly proud of the reputation this Association has earned as a steady, trusted resource for employers navigating constant change. That kind of credibility comes from a shared commitment to showing up, doing the work, and doing it well.

With that in mind, I’m especially pleased to share that Jenna Reed will be stepping into the role of President. Jenna is well known to many of you and is, quite simply, one of the most visible and respected professionals Cascade has ever had. With her combined business and employment law background, she brings both practical insight and sound judgment to every conversation. Just as important, she understands our members and what they count on us for. Having worked closely together for 22 years, I can say with complete confidence that Cascade is in very capable hands.

While much has changed over the years, it’s only made us stronger. I feel nothing but optimism about what’s ahead, and I’m excited to see Cascade continue to grow and adapt under Jenna’s leadership.

As for me, I’m looking forward to a new chapter, with a little more time for family and, if I’m being honest, a little less time in meetings.

Thank you for the trust, the partnership, and the many years of shared purpose. It’s been an honor to be part of the Cascade community.