AFPAA is led by a board of directors elected by the membership. Each director serves a two year term. Five board members also serve as officers of the Association, filling the positions of chairperson, president, vice president, secretary, and chief financial officer on a yearly basis.
AFPAA's leadership progression protocol dictates that the chairperson step down at the end of his or her term. At the same time, the president, vice president, and secretary each move up one position to replace the previous incumbent, with a new secretary joining the line of succession. This leadership rotation takes place in July of each year.
This sequential assumption of progressively greater responsibilities is designed to ensure the Association benefits from experienced management, continuity of leadership, and the regular infusion of fresh ideas.
On July 1, 2026, a new team assumed AFPAA’s leadership responsibilities. Carla Sylvester became the new chair, replacing Eric Schnaible, Chuck Merlo stepped into Carla's former role as president, and Julie Briggs became the new vice president. Mike Paoli became part of the leadership succession process after volunteering to become secretary. Phil Ratliff continues his duties as chief financial officer
Eric was reelected to a new two year term and will remain on the board of directors. Also reelected to new terms were Carla and Chuck. Four members who were elected for the first time joined the board: Annette Crawford (who had been serving on an appointed basis), John Banuswiecz, Beth Horrine, and Jerry Renne.
Leaving the board as their terms expired were Brett Ashworth, John Dorrian, and Cheryl Law. Our thanks to Brett, J.D. and Cheryl for their many contributions to AFPAA.
The current leadership team is pictured below. The duration of each elected member's current term is listed under his or her name. The leadership team also includes Dick Cole, who as the editor of News and Notes — the association’s newsletter — is appointed by the board.
AFPAA also benefits from the work of numerous members who serve on committees overseen by the board, and the support and advice of our past board chairs and presidents.
To find contact information for AFPAA's officers and committee chairs, please go to the Contact Us link at the bottom of any page, or use either the printed or online Membership Directory.