I would like to implement Google Apps to get a more productive email environment, combined with Google Calendar and also use Basecamp (http://www.basecamphq.com) to better manage our events. I am hoping this will create a good synergy of information and produces better results. I will also use an online storage system like www.box.net to store all files needed across the Board so that there are less bottlenecks and everyone has access to all information needed.

Feeling the level of passion for AIGA. I attended the Diversity session Breakout and was fascinated by the energy int he room. We did an exercise highlighting the views we hold associated with several races. I had done this exercise previously and experienced similiar insights. However this time, I guess i ignorantly thought (us) designers are more willing to discuss and face issue than I thought.

I salute the courage required to forge ahead with this effort and will work to support in our chapter! F

In response to Robert - Basecamp has been our one stop shop so we use only one program and access only one. Everything we need is there and it syncs up to iCal. We're using the $12/mo with 250MB storage and it's great. I'd recommend starting with that first. I've been really happy with it, especially since we upgraded from the free version.

I had so many meaningful take-aways it's hard to pin point one.

Jill and Will from DC's talk on membership was a real eye opener. We had a "duh" moment. Rewording the fee schedule to say "Member discount.." is a great idea. I'm realizing that there are some very simple, inexpensive (if not free) ways in which we can improve the manner in which we relate to the community. And it's just little things - details that are so meaningful.

I also feel that I have overcome my "stranger danger". Personally, this is a big step in the right direction.

Thank you. And thank everyone for everything. I had a wonderful time with amazing company.

I feel that every moment at the Retreat was a great learning experience. I enjoyed learning during the breakout sessions, training sessions, lunches. I especially enjoyed connecting with wonderful people who share a passion for Design and for AIGA.

As an incoming board member, this retreat gave me valuable tools that help be overcome many doubts and now I'm much more confident to do my job because I learned from others that had similar challenges than what I'll face during my time as a boardmember. Now I'm even more excited about facing these challenges and to become more involved with AIGA.