Calling all chapter leaders in Region 5! Billy Meyerkorth, CPP has served on numerous APA Committees for 15 years. Currently, Billy serves on the Hotline, CHAMPS, National Speakers Bureau, Board for Contributing Writers, and the Board of Advisors. Learn more about your Region 5 Board of Advisor with this exclusive Q&A session! 
What were your thoughts when you were asked to serve on the Board of Advisors?
Honestly, my thoughts were ‘Wow!’ It’s a big compliment to be asked to serve especially since I’d previously served years ago. I love working as an Advisor. It is a very rewarding position.
Tell us a fond memory you have made with your region during your term as Board of Advisor.
I have fond memories of meeting up with members from our region at the APA Congress and we had a great time. Our regional peeps know how to work hard and play hard! We shared horror stories and discussed ways to help each other out with various chapter issues. It was wonderful getting to meet in person. It is rewarding to help others and to have someone be so thankful for something you love doing is even better.
What is some advice you would like to give to the chapters in your region?
Please, please, please, reach out to me to say, ‘Hi’. Ask me questions and utilize me as your chapter’s resource. I am here for you! You and your chapters can accomplish anything. Do not give up and if there is a will, there is a way, and we will find the way to achieve your goals.
I spoke with a friend of mine the other day about chapter study group issues they were facing. After talking through what seemed like a huge obstacle, we came up with a solution and found improvements for them going forward. It is all about the teamwork and payroll pros are a team!
What question do you get the most from your Region and what is your response?
The most popular questions I get asked is about becoming a 501c3, certification credits, and recertification issues. Questions like: how do we obtain credits from APA for our meetings? Some are not just questions about the ‘how’, but also the ‘why’.
I have also had great conversations with individuals about the APA process and why we submit forms to help solve their chapter issues. It’s a great feeling when chapters feel comfortable enough to ask us questions that they may not feel comfortable asking APA staff. We are the liaison they’re looking for.
What do you like most about being on the Board of Advisors?
I love the team of advisors! We work hard, but have a great team commodity and work well together to get a lot done! The team and people I get to work with are amazing, and the APA staff is incredible. The support network is unbelievable. The feeling of helping others at something I already love doing is beyond words. I enjoy giving back to such an amazing organization that has done so much for me and my career. I look forward to many more opportunities ahead to serve chapters and payroll professionals.
Are you a proud chapter leader in Region 5? Don’t be shy! Introduce yourself to Billy in the comments below or send him an email.
Billy Meyerkorth, CPP, began his 2-year term as the Region 5 Board of Advisor in May 2016.
