News

Incoming AES Prez Asserts Ambitious Agenda

New York City (October 14, 2003)--While the AES Convention marks industry progress and movement through its various exhibits and seminars on an annual schedule, it's also an occasion for the annual changing of the AES guard. This year's change in leadership lands AES veteran Ron Streicher in the presidential seat, replacing Kees Immink. Serving the AES since 1976, first as secretary of the Los Angeles section, and also as governor, regional vice president and, most recently, AES secretary (for the past 11 years), Streicher appreciates the organization's role and industry-wide influence. As president, Streicher has an important agenda, and is eager to get started.

Streicher has not only been a witness to the AES' growth and outreach over the years, he's also been a contributor. "During my nearly 30 years of service to the Society, I have worked with numerous presidents and boards of governors and observed what approaches do and do not seem to be effective in furthering the success of the Society," Streicher points out. "And, in the past decade, I have seen the educational track of our conventions grow and, I am proud to say, been a part of this development. The AES can and must continue to provide a major focus of leadership in the area of audio education and the development of Student Sections throughout the world."

Coming into the presidency with many goals, Streicher is setting his sights on realistic progress, with regard to budgetary concerns and industry direction. In addition to the development of student membership activities, he sees the need for development in the AES' local sections, many members of which do not attend conventions and conferences. "One of my primary goals as president is the creation and promotion of a Speakers Bureau of people who can give meaningful presentations to the local Sections not only in their own home areas, but wherever their professional travels take them," asserts Streicher. "As president, I will try to set an example by 'going on the lecture circuit' myself--within the reasonable limits of available time and budget, of course. I also will work with the appropriate standing committees to promote the Speakers Bureau throughout the Society as a whole."

The new president will also focus on the important work of the AES Standards Committee and Technical Council. "Because they require a significant part of the Society's resources, the Board of Governors continually reviews these activities with the goal of improving both effectiveness and efficiency," notes Streicher. "This year, we will be faced with the very difficult task of choosing a successor to John Nunn, who is retiring after eight years as Chair of the AESSC."

With an ambitious agenda to expand and strengthen the organization's reach, Streicher plans on seeking additional support. "To help bring these goals to fruition without overtaxing the general operating budget of the Society I intend to seek special contributions (both private and corporate) to establish an endowment fund--the proceeds of which will be dedicated solely to the support of the Speakers Bureau and other local activities."

--Janice Brown