From the President

November 12, 2024

 

Dear NCA Members: 

It’s November already and I am looking forward to seeing all of you in New Orleans for our 110th annual convention. This year’s convention will be a celebration of the innovative scholarship and research in which our members are engaged, offering a diversity of sessions that showcase the significance and necessity of our discipline. 

The annual convention will be a wonderful opportunity to engage with fellow NCA members, whether you are presenting, attending panels, exploring ideas, or a bit of everything. I encourage you to attend some of our key events that will set the tone for the convention. Don’t miss the Opening Session, a timely kickoff that highlights our shared purpose. The Carroll C. Arnold Distinguished Lecture will be a moment of deep reflection and insight by Dr. Carolyn Calloway-Thomas. And, of course, I hope to see you at the Presidential Address, where we’ll look back on the year and cast our vision toward the future. 

Beyond the formal sessions, one of the most rewarding aspects of our convention is the opportunity to network. Whether you are new to NCA or have been a member for many years, you’ll find ample opportunities to connect with peers, meet new colleagues, and engage in conversations that spark collaboration. These moments of connection, whether more formally in sessions, casually in the hallways of the convention hotels, or amidst some fun during social events, are at the heart of our association’s strength. 

For those of you participating in the Legislative Assembly, we will convene on Wednesday and Saturday to discuss the vital business of the association. Our agenda includes two new interest group proposals and the review of next year’s budget. Your participation and insights in these sessions are crucial as we shape the future direction and priorities of the NCA. 

New Orleans, with its rich culture and vibrant history, is the perfect place for us to learn and build lasting connections. I am excited to welcome you to this year’s convention and share in the experiences that make our annual gathering so meaningful. 

Looking forward to seeing you there! 

Marnel Niles Goins 

President