Bea Broda – Chair (unopposed)
As Chair of SATW, my primary objective is to stay attuned to the needs and concerns of our Active members. To achieve this, I aim to provide a platform for open discussion, serving as a sounding board and meeting space where members can share ideas and collaborate.
One of the significant challenges we face is identifying and securing host destinations for our events. With increasing competition and declining budgets, it's becoming more difficult to find destinations for our in-person meetings. With the executive committee’s Sites chair, I'm committed to staying connected with potential host destinations, highlighting the benefits of partnering with SATW and the exposure we can provide through our network.
Another key goal is to facilitate engaging discussions on topics relevant to our members. We've had insightful sessions on the growing role of AI in journalism and photography, and I plan to continue featuring informed speakers who can address the challenges and opportunities we face in the industry.
By focusing on these areas, I hope to foster a sense of community, facilitate knowledge sharing, and drive meaningful connections among our members. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure SATW remains a valuable resource for its members, providing a platform for growth, collaboration, and innovation.
Sharael Kolberg – First Vice Chair (unopposed)
I am an internationally published freelance travel writer and author with more than 20 years of experience. My articles have appeared in Travel + Leisure, National Geographic, U.S. News & World Report, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, and more. I have also worked as professional photographer, blogger, broadcast journalist, content creator, social media strategist and website developer. I’m running for re-election as the SATW 1st Vice Chair to help facilitate professional development for our freelance members. Whether you’re new to travel writing and want to learn how to craft the perfect pitch or are a veteran writer interested in getting higher paying assignments, professional development is important to learn and grow your career. I look forward to finding engaging presenters to discuss topics that are timely and useful. You can learn more about me and my work at Sharael.com. Thank you for the opportunity to become more involved in SATW and to enrich the experience for our members.
Susan Kraus – Second Vice Chair (Unopposed)
Debi Lander – Treasurer (unopposed)
I’ve served as treasurer of the Freelance Council for the past two years, although we have not had much activity. I’d like to see that change. Hoping to see a Freelance Council meeting scheduled in the near future and willing to work to make that happen.
I attended the convention in Istanbul, the last Freelance Council meeting in Spain, and joined the Western Chapter for their meeting in Wyoming. I hope to attend the next Eastern Chapter meeting and hopefully our convention in Detroit. Otherwise, I continue to travel and take photos on my own and on organized. press trips.
RC Staab – Secretary (unopposed)
Since 1994, I was first an Associate Member, then Senior Member and now an Active Member of SATW. I've served in several capacities with SATW including Treasurer of the Western Chapter and working on several ad hoc Senior Committees. I'm confident that I can quickly capture meeting minutes, handle correspondence and interact with new members. As the moderator and administrator of the Freelance Council Facebook page, I'll endeavor to create more interaction and encourage more poss.