Calling all chapter leaders in Region 4! You know her, you love her, but don’t you want to know more about her? Learn more about your Region 4 Board of Advisor, Christine Stolpe, CPP, with this exclusive Q&A session!
What were your thoughts when you were asked to serve on the Board of Advisors?
My first thought when I received the letter from James Paille, CPP, and APA President-Elect 2015 was, “How does he even know who I am?”
I was honored, of course, but I couldn’t help but wonder if I was ready to step into such an important role within the APA. As a chapter officer for the Silicon Valley Chapter, I knew the Board of Advisors are an integral part of the communication between the APA and the local chapters. I understood that I had very large shoes to fill as the former Region 4 Advisor was the one and only Mary Holland, CPP.
After the negative thoughts had their fun, I was able to regain control of my emotions and was very excited to jump right in and begin my newest adventure with the APA!
What were some struggles you have experienced and overcome as Board of Advisor?
The most difficult struggle I have experienced and have overcome is my time management. I work full-time outside of the home and I have an amazing family with whom I love to spend quality time; therefore, balancing work, life, and extra-curricular activities with the APA has become a very intricate dance that would make the pros on Dancing with the Stars jealous!
The good news is being part of the APA is my passion and I’m happy to do it. I have always been able to choreograph just the right steps, plan the appropriate proactive periods, and always have a super team ready to jump in and catch me when I miss a step.
What is some advice you would like to give to the chapters in your region?
The best advice I can give to any chapter is to stay active, stay involved, and stay surrounded by passionate payroll professionals to keep your own fire burning strong. When we are in our daily routines, it can be easy to see chapter leadership or involvement as an extra chore, but it is so much more than that. We are creating experiences and opportunities for other payroll people just like ourselves, and if we didn’t do it, then who would? So stay focused, stay strong, allow yourself time to rest and recharge when you need it, and then get back to it to be the amazing chapter leaders that you are!
What question do you get the most from your Region and what is your response?
Most of the questions that I have received from my region have been for contacts within the APA. As with any contact request, I prefer to create introductions rather than just give out my colleague’s contact information without their knowledge. Once I have cleared it with the recipient, I like to write an introduction email between the two parties letting them know each other’s background as well as how or why I know them. It’s a nice ice-breaker for the two contacts and doubles as a trust-builder for the people who I respect as industry experts.
What do you like most about being on the Board of Advisors?
My favorite thing about being on the Board of Advisors has been traveling to San Antonio for the Summer Board meetings. I always get to see these same incredible people at Congress but in a smaller, more intimate setting. The APA Board of Directors are a group of individuals whom I hold in the highest regard, so being able to join and present to them was one of the greatest highlights of my year!
What were you surprised to learn about the chapters in your Region?
It doesn’t surprise me, but it amazes me that many of the dedicated payroll professionals in Region 4 have volunteered for chapter leadership roles. They all share the same passion I have for the APA and for continuing education for our profession.
They bring some really interesting ideas, questions, and proposals for me to present to the Board of Directors, which shows me they are driven and dedicated to improving the APA. I could not be more proud of being asked to represent Region 4 as their Advisor for the past two years!
Christine Stolpe, CPP, began her 2-year term as the Region 4 Board of Advisor in May 2016. Christine is always open to chapter questions from anyone in Region 4 or in another region. She encourages everyone to contact her or post a comment below.
Are you a proud chapter leader in Region 4? Don’t be shy and introduce yourself to Christine in the comments!
