C Wood 2012 APHA EC Nominee
Channel: Craig Wood
Date: 2012-09-26

Hi fellow APHA Directors. As a candidate for the Executive Committee I thought I would share with you a little about myself and perhaps that would spark a few questions you might want to ask of me either by email or at the convention. 

I was born and raised in Texas, and have been involved with horse for over 35 years. I have an interest in a wide range of disciplines from fox hunting to roping and reining. I moved to Kentucky in 1985 to take the position of extension horse specialist. What better state to take a horse job in than Kentucky. 

For the last 7 years I have worked on a national project out of USDA and Cooperative Extension called eXtension. Where we are creating America's research based learning network. I work with the faculty and staff of all 75 land grant universities in this country. It is quite a diverse group of people, which requires very good listening skills, critical thinking skills, negotiation, collaboration and compromise. I believe this experience uniquely qualifies me to serve on the executive committee of APHA.

APHA has come a long way over the past few years.  Communication has definitely improved. More information is being shared in a much more timely fashion than ever before. Still there is more we can do. Financially things have slowly improved and the decisions that have been made in light of the finances are making APHA a stronger Association. Do we still have work to do? YOU BET. There are many areas we need to continue to improve. Participation in programs is a must. We need to listen to our members and participants to develop meaningful programs. We need to serious examine any idea that can potentially increase participation. Weigh its merit and impact on the Association and how it affects the mission of APHA. Through strong participation the association can grow. 

We need to further empower the directors and use the committee structure that is in place to its fullest extent. Directors need to know that they can make a difference, that their ideas, and voice are important to the success of the Association. 

We need to create an atmosphere of fair play and a level playing field in all events. Creating that atmosphere starts with the EC, the APHA staff and us as directors. So if you feel that I am a worthy candidate to serve on the Executive Committee, I would appreciate your support at the Convention.

Feel free to contact if you have any questions. Email: millwoodspringsfarm@gmail.com