OCASSP 2025/26 Call for Nominations / Slate of Officers

As we enjoy the spring of 2025, it is time for chapter elections to build the leadership committee for the 2025/2026 chapter year beginning July 1. The executive committee officers are determined by the chapter bylaws and formally elected by the chapter membership.  The leadership committee is comprised of both elected officers and appointed chairpersons, directors, and subcommittees.  Serving in a position on the chapter leadership committee is a great way to network with your peers as well as build your leadership and management skills.  

We are pleased to share the wonderful news that our current Chapter President-Elect, Jessica Vargas, is expecting a new addition to her family. We wish her warm congratulations and all the best during this exciting time. As a result, Jessica has decided to step down from her role as the Chapter President-Elect.

In accordance with Chapter Bylaws, and with Chapter Executive Committee and Society approval, Chapter President Carolyn Oakes has appointed current Member-at-Large and past Chapter President, Brian Nguyen, to serve the remainder of Jessica’s term as President-Elect, which automatically succeeds to Chapter President beginning July 1, 2025. Brian’s appointment is effective immediately.

The purpose of this action is to maintain leadership continuity and ensure a smooth transition for the Chapter’s operations. Additionally, it will continue to provide the new incoming 2025/2026 President-Elect the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the President’s role and responsibilities and to strategize for a successful transition into the role of President the following year.

Below is a tentative slate of elected officers for the 2025/2026 chapter year. Once the slate is finalized, members will be sent electronic ballots to select the officers, or affirm their nominations if running unopposed. 

  • President Brian Nguyen, MISE, CSP, AEP, ARM (automatic succession from President-Elect)
  • President-Elect Bhavika Lodhia, MPH, RSO, CSHM (former Membership Chair)
  • Treasurer Tracey Kreiger, MPH, CSP, ASP (Chapter Member, Ad Hoc Committee Member)
  • Secretary Haley Binder, MBA, ASP (Careers / Jobs Placement Chair)
  • Advisor 1 Teddi Penewell, CST, CIT (Past President 2012/2013, Past Advisor & Delegate)
  • Advisor 2 Georgette Quinn (Past President 2011/2012, Past Advisor & Delegate)
  • Advisor 3 Bob Howarth, MS, CSP (Past President 2005/2006, Past Advisor & Delegate)
  • Member at Large Carolyn Oakes (automatic succession from 2024/2025 president)

In addition to the core of elected officers, there are many opportunities to help support the chapter’s operation, including directors of membership, programs, outreach, conference planning, and many other things where you can spend as much or as little of your time as suits you. 

If you are interested in running for an elected position or helping in any other capacity, or to learn more about the volunteer opportunities with the chapter, please contact the nominating chair, Brian Nguyen, at nguyenb.csp@gmail.com.