by Kenneth Semien Sr.
The Durward K. McDaniel (DKM) Fund Committee seeks to identify five curious ACB members who have demonstrated leadership potential and have an eagerness to enhance their lives and others they meet through personalized leadership development activities. Apply to join the Class of 2024 ACB JPMorgan Chase Leadership Fellows by completing an online application for consideration. The link to apply will be announced on various ACB lists and on the ACB website. The ACB JPMorgan Chase Leadership Fellows award brings five recipients to join us in Jacksonville, Fla. for the 63rd annual ACB conference and convention from July 5-12, 2024.
You may currently serve in a leadership role, or have served in a leadership role previously, and wish to renew your interest in engaging in the work of ACB, your affiliate or chapter. This award could be of support; therefore, if you meet the criteria below, we invite you to learn more about and participate in ACB’s advanced leadership development program.
To be eligible for consideration, each applicant must be age 18 or older; blind or visually impaired, and current on ACB membership dues. Applicants must be able to travel independently, navigate the convention hotel, and request support when necessary.
Applicants will experience a 30-minute interview with a team of DKM committee members during mid-April. In addition, a letter of recommendation must be submitted by the applicant’s state or special-interest affiliate president. Applicants are to be sure that they meet the award criteria before requesting a letter of recommendation. The letter of recommendation should include the applicant’s demonstrated leadership qualities, potential, and contributions on any level within the organization or in their local community.
The DKM program and ACB honor recipients by funding round-trip air travel and supporting transportation, hotel accommodations (double occupancy), per diem allowance for meals and incidentals, reception, banquet tickets, the general convention registration fee, and other determined activities. Optional tours and other fun activities are not covered by the program.
The responsibilities of each recipient include but are not limited to attending the full week of conference and convention activities from Friday, July 5 through the end of Thursday, July 11; participating in daily general sessions and the Keys to the Convention seminar, along with special-interest and committee seminars, while making efforts to interact with ACB leaders and fellow members.
The applicant submits an online application, and the affiliate president submits a letter of recommendation to Kenneth Semien Sr., [email protected], to be received no later than April 3rd. Recipients will be selected by the ACB president and executive director during the latter part of April. Recipients will be notified shortly thereafter. All questions should be sent to DKM Chair Kenneth Semien Sr., [email protected], or dial (409) 866-5838.