Thank You, Ed!

By Angelic P. Bush, MSRS, CRA, RT, FAHRA

Recently, Ed Cronin, CEO of AHRA, announced that he will be retiring at the end of 2018. Since 2005, Ed has played a critical role in the development and success of the association, and while we will miss him and his inspiring leadership, we wish him the best of luck the next chapter of his life. On behalf of the AHRA Board of Directors, I want to thank Ed for his 14 years of outstanding leadership and dedicated service, which has included many significant accomplishments:

When Ed joined AHRA as Executive Director in 2005 following an extended vacancy in the position, he quickly stabilized the board and staff and created a positive, collaborative relationship which has served us well over the years.

Ed was quick to realize the potential for improved corporate relations with our vendor community, believing their knowledge and expertise would be valuable to our members’ education. He initiated the AHRA Education Foundation’s first capital campaign which raised over $4 million, and over his tenure this total has exceeded $10 million.

Early on, Ed worked with the board to create our Leadership Institute, which created learning opportunities for members at all stages of their careers. He was a strong proponent for the Basic Management Track, which provides introductory education for new or inspiring leaders.

AHRA membership has grown by 50% during Ed’s tenure to over 5,000 members (and on our way to 6,000) during a period of decline for other associations. This has strengthened our position in the industry and built credibility for our advocacy efforts.

Ed’s operational and financial management of our association has been exceptional for the past 14 years, including some difficult years during the Great Recession. He will leave us with solid reserves to provide us with a strong future.

We’re thankful that Ed has given his announcement 9 months in advance of his departure. Over the next few months, we will be conducting a search to find the new CEO of AHRA. During this transition period, it is our priority to find the best individual to lead, while maintaining a stable and effective organization.

Please join me in thanking Ed for his leadership.

Angelic P. Bush, MSRS, CRA, RT, FAHRA is the 2017-2018 president of the AHRA Board of Directors. She works at Baylor Scott & White-Round Rock in Round Rock, TX and can be reached at bushangelic@gmail.com.