Michelle Clawson, CPP, is APA’s Region 2 Board of Advisor. She serves as the liaison between APA and local chapters in South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. Michelle is also the director of California’s annual payroll conference.
Learn more about Michelle Clawson, CPP, with this exclusive Q&A session!
What were your thoughts when you were asked to serve on the Board of Advisors?
I was honored and humbled to be asked to take on such an important role. Also, I was really excited to step up and represent the chapters in Region 2.
What are some of the struggles you have experienced and overcome as a Board of Advisor?
Honestly, it hasn’t been a struggle at all. The Region 2 chapter leaders have been amazing to work with and are very communicative. If and when issues arise, it is quite easy to help resolve them because APA’s Chapter Relations Department is very responsive and truly cares about assisting chapters.
What is a fond memory you have made with your region during your term as Board of Advisor?
I think my most favorite memory was at Congress in 2017 when I became Advisor to Region 2. At the Chapter Exchange, I met with many of the regions’ officers and was so warmly welcomed. I immediately felt comfortable and accepted into the group. I knew I was going to really enjoy being their Advisor.
What question do you get the most from your region and what is your response?
I’ve received many questions about new APA resources, such as the Payroll Source Plus, as this is a fairly new product. I’ve responded by bringing these questions back to APA. As with any new product, questions, concerns, and suggested improvements arise as customers use it. It has been wonderful bringing these comments back to APA and seeing improvements to the product.
What do you like most about being on the Board of Advisors?
I love meeting and getting to know chapter members from my region. I also really enjoy getting to know more about how the APA works internally and being a part of bringing ideas to the APA board to improve member and chapter experiences. I love that the APA Board listens to its members and is always trying to deliver on its mission.
What were you surprised to learn about the chapters in your region?
I’m not sure surprised is the right feeling, but I was very grateful at how warmly the chapters accepted me as their Advisor and how inclusive and communicative they have been. I love giving back to my payroll community and am so honored to have been asked to serve.
Are you a proud chapter leader in Region 2? Introduce yourself to Michelle in the comments below or send her an email.
Michelle Clawson, CPP, began her 2-year term as the Region 2 Board of Advisor in May 2017.
