Don Killingsworth
	Jacksonville State University Jacksonville, AL
	Platform Statement: Highlight your previous involvement within this unit that will help you in leading this unit.  What roles have you played within this particular unit as a member thus far?

Since 2005, I have been actively involved with the planning and development of Region 4. Over the last few years, I have been a part of the launching of new programs that have set Region 4 apart from most other regions in NACADA. New programs such as the Region 4 Awards Program and the Region 4 Graduate Student Scholarship demonstrate my desire to further develop our region into the best region in NACADA.

What do you believe are the most important goals and initiatives for this unit in meeting the strategic plan for both the unit and the Association? 

The most important goals and initiatives for this unit that I foresee in the future are the developing of our community colleges and four year institutions advisement networking abilities and continuing the growth and development of our graduate students who are pursuing advisement as a profession. The gap that exists currently concerning our two year and four year institutions is disappointing. We as advisors share the same problems and issues whether we are at a two year or four year school. Bridging the proverbial gap will not only strengthen the advisement practices for all of our members but offer valuable experience and expertise to those who may not have anyone else to turn to on their campus. The graduate students who are pursuing a career in academic advisement or higher education in general are our future. Getting these students involved with NACADA early will only help us in the future grow as an association. Whether or not they turn out to be advisors, knowing how NACADA works, and the resources offered will benefit our association for years to come.

Why are you interested in serving in this leadership position or what influenced you to run for this leadership position? 

After my term expired as the representative for Alabama earlier this year, I wanted to run for the position of Region 4 Chair. Working with the past region chair Annie Turman and Current Region 4 Chair Kyle Ellis, they have taught me what it takes to lead this region. Serving currently as the budget liaison for our region, I have learned fiscally how to manage regional conferences and make sure that our region is always fiscally sound. I want to serve in this position to carry on the work that has commenced from previous leadership and develop Region 4 further.

Provide any additional comments or information (either personal or leadership-related) that you want potential voters to know about you that is not covered elsewhere in your platform information. 

With your permission, I will strive to continue to build upon previous leadership and continue to seek new ideas that will only enhance our experience with NACADA. With your vote of support, I offer an open door to the leadership of Region 4.

Past Involvement in NACADA:

Years in NACADA: 4 years

National Offices Held and Accomplishments Achieved While in Office:

Regional Activities/Offices Held, including accomplishments achieved while in office:

• Currently serving as Budget Liaison for Region 4, 2007
• Served as Alabama Representative, 2005-2007
• Served on Regional Steering Committee, 2005-2007
• Assisted with planning of Alabama State Drive-in.

Committee/Task Force/Advisory Board Activities and Accomplishments:

Commission/Interest Group Activities and Accomplishments:

• Current member — Advising Administration Commission, Undecided & Exploratory Students Commission, Advisor Training & Development Commission, First-Generation College Student Advising Interest Group

Other:

• Director of Academic Advisement, Jacksonville State University