board elections

As we approach the annual conference, we are also looking forward to our annual election process. The election process will look a little bit different this year, as we are trying to improve the process and be more engaging with our membership.

The WCA will be using new election software that will enable you to vote from home via a link sent in your email. There will also be an option for you to vote in person for the President Elect after you visit registration at the conference.

Traditionally, incoming Board members have been installed during the Annual Conference. This year, only the President-Elect will be installed at the conference, while elections for expiring Board positions will take place afterward.

The President-Elect role is a six-year leadership commitment designed to support a smooth transition of organizational leadership. The term is structured as follows:

• Years 1–2: President-Elect

• Years 3–4: President

• Years 5–6: Past President

During the first two years, the President-Elect works closely with the current President to learn the organization’s processes, practices, and leadership responsibilities. This mentorship period helps prepare the President-Elect to assume the role of President with confidence and continuity.

After serving as President, the individual transitions to the Past President role, where they provide guidance and support to the current President while also helping mentor and educate the incoming President-Elect. This leadership model promotes continuity, knowledge transfer, and long-term organizational success.

The election process for the President-Elect position will begin no later than 45 days prior to September 21, 2026. Accordingly, electronic voting will open on August 7, 2026.

Members are encouraged to participate through the electronic voting process; however, ballots may also be cast through the final day of voting at the Annual Conference on Monday. Ballots will be tabulated, and the election results will be announced during the conference. The successful candidate will be sworn in on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

Members interested in serving as President-Elect should contact Past President Toby Formiller no later than August 3, 2026, to be considered for nomination.

Following the Annual Conference, WCA will provide information regarding the Board positions open for election and begin accepting nominations. The positions scheduled for election in 2026 are:

• Treasurer

• Corresponding Secretary

• State Representative

• County Representative

• Private Representative

While nomination information will be distributed and nominations accepted after the conference, the conference provides an excellent opportunity for prospective candidates to engage with members, discuss their interest in serving, and learn more about the responsibilities of these leadership roles before the election period begins.