“Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.”
Shirley Chisholm
I am honored to represent you as this year’s SETA President at a pivotal moment, as Congress inches closer to reauthorizing WIOA. Now more than ever, leadership is defined by example, and together, as SETA members, we are setting the standard for excellence in workforce development.
Building on the exemplary leadership of our immediate Past President Joseph Seymour, I am committed to advancing SETA’s three strategic goals identified during his presidency: (1) Increased membership value, (2) Improved Conference Experience, and (3) Modernized Association By-Laws. Ensuring that our association not only meets but exceeds the challenges ahead, this year SETA will lead by example to ensure our members are future-focused and resourced with community collaboration, workforce innovation, and professional growth.
- Community Collaboration: SETA will set the example by strengthening existing workforce partnerships with associations such as NAWDP and NAWB while forging new partnerships with foundations, public-private partnerships, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Tailoring these partnerships to address specific workforce needs is crucial for maximizing our front-line impact. SETA will assemble a partnership team capable of addressing the diverse needs of our workforce community and driving innovative solutions.
- Workforce Innovation: SETA will lead by example in supporting LWDBs as they seek funding sources beyond traditional WIOA formula funds. By connecting LWDBs with external grant sources, SETA aims to help LWDBs innovate and broaden the financial base for workforce development. This year, SETA will invite non-traditional funders to our conferences. Additionally, our conference sessions will expose members to other administrative agencies with workforce initiatives, such as the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Department of Transportation, to explore new funding opportunities.
- Professional Growth: SETA will lead by example in ensuring the growth of our profession through the “Generation Next” program, developed by 2nd Vice-President Akil Bektemba. “Generation Next” is designed to attract emerging talent while enhancing the expertise of seasoned professionals by providing opportunities to develop credentialed workforce skills. This dual focus on mentoring the next generation and advancing current practitioners will ensure that our workforce community continues to thrive and innovate as we prepare for WIOA reauthorization in a rapidly evolving landscape.
To accomplish these goals, I am especially privileged to serve alongside board members who lead by example, demonstrating the behaviors, values, and commitment that contribute to the continued success of SETA. I am deeply grateful for the efforts of our tireless staff members, Julia Hoyle and Toronda Webb, whose dedication ensures our initiatives run smoothly.
Further, I am beyond humbled to follow in the footsteps of SETA’s past leaders. The association they envisioned created a pathway that led to my journey as President, and I am an example of the benefits of SETA’s commitment to workforce development.
I have personally experienced how SETA provides unparalleled professional growth opportunities to workforce development partners and practitioners. Spending most of my professional career in the private sector, I became a SETA member in 2014 when I served on a Local Workforce Development Board (LWDB). Seeking to better understand my role within our vibrant workforce ecosystem, I found in SETA the network and resources I needed to advance as an LWDB Chair. When I pivoted my career from the private sector to being an LWDB Director, the SETA community provided the support necessary for my new career path.
The leadership and vision of past SETA leaders have paved the way for my career journey, and I am eager to continue their legacy by ensuring that your career journey enables you to advance in your goal of developing the talents of others.
As SETA President, I am committed to leading by example, with a shared vision centered on your professional growth. Together, we will shape the future of our industry, making SETA the standard for workforce development excellence, with your talent as the driving force behind our collective success.
Yours in Service,
La Tunya Goodwin
SETA President
