A message by the outgoing Ex Dir, Eduardo Platon

Dear WACNO Friends, Members, and Global Enthusiasts:

As you might know, I am in the process of leaving the World Affairs Council of New Orleans in order to pursue other challenging international projects. As a global enthusiast myself, I really enjoyed working and spending time with you during these past 18 months. Together, I believe that we made significant progress in rebuilding and reenergizing this great organization, making use of the available resources, publicizing the value of our mission, and finally placing WACNO in a stronger position both within New Orleans and in the outside world.

The past year and a half has been a busy time for us. We developed a user-friendly and efficient website, and we planned and executed quality programs–including our Speaker Series, the Great Decisions Program, several WACNO Panel Discussions, and, of course, our PubNites. We also created a database of 2,000 new contacts; automated WACNO transactions and membership processes; organized the Council’s database and communication process; created a new marketing platform for media/PR, hired and trained college interns; initiated and managed WACNO social media sites; signed partnership agreements with key organizations in New Orleans; developed useful links with academics, business folks, the military community, civic and social organizations, political entities and government agencies; incorporated new individual and corporate members into our organization; and reached out to the New Orleans community to educate our fellow residents in international affairs and local affairs with international implications.

In moving forward, I believe the organization must now place more emphasis on fund raising, media connections, and the recruitment of new board members. Successful development of these areas will further advance our mission by adding talent, time, and money to WACNO’s pool of assets.

Last but not least, I would like to express my appreciation to WACNO’s excellent leadership team during my tenure as the Executive Director. It has been a pleasure learning, sharing, and collaborating, as part of that group, and I wish them and the organization much success in the future. Again, I hope that my contributions to the Council will help to advance its mission within New Orleans and beyond, and I look forward to being of service in a different capacity in New Orleans, in America, or overseas.

Best wishes,

Eduardo Platon,
eduardoplaton@gmail.com