Joe Franchetti shared a statement with SQA Members via the Quality Matters newsletter ahead of the organization’s annual event and Ruby Anniversary, this April:

As each year unfolds, a new president assumes leadership of our esteemed society. It is with immense joy, pride, and excitement that I embrace the privilege of serving as the president during the Society of Quality Assurance’s Ruby Anniversary year. Throughout time, the ruby gemstone has epitomized themes of love, dedication, and passion. Moreover, it symbolizes attributes of power and prosperity. As I compose the inaugural edition of my President’s Message for the newsletter, I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering love, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by every member of our Society. Together, the wealth of knowledge and collective power we possess can propel meaningful, positive change.

My devotion to the Society of Quality Assurance stems from a profound passion shared by us all—to learn, to contribute, to teach, and to effect meaningful change. I pledge to uphold SQA’s mission by bolstering our organizational structure and refining systems to monitor our progress and fulfill our obligations to our members.

Our January Board Meeting served as a pivotal moment, where we charted our course for the year ahead, guided by the pillars of our Strategic Plan and the invaluable input of our diverse membership. I’m pleased to share with you the key objectives that will shape our collective efforts:

Fostering Global Partnerships: We aim to deepen our ties with international QA organizations, professionals, and regulators recognizing that collaboration knows no borders. By leveraging shared expertise and perspectives, we can enrich our collective impact on human, animal, and environmental health worldwide.

Advancing Ethical Standards: Collaboration with professional societies that share our commitment to ethical principles is vital. Together, we will advance the ethics, principles, and knowledge essential to research quality assurance, setting new standards of excellence in our field.

Global Outreach for RQAP Program: The Registered Quality Assurance Professional (RQAP) program stands as a hallmark of excellence in our profession. Through targeted promotion and outreach efforts, we will expand our global reach, empowering quality professionals with the tools they need to excel.

Elevating Industry Awareness: In an ever-evolving regulatory landscape, staying informed is paramount. Through dialogue, education, and publications, we will promote industry perspective and awareness of global regulatory issues, empowering our members to navigate these complexities with confidence.

Harnessing Technology for Growth: Technology continues to reshape the landscape of education and training. We are committed to evaluating and integrating technology to enhance learning experiences and optimize SQA operations, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation.

The Board eagerly anticipates advancing these objectives through Board-driven initiatives, member engagement in Committees and Specialty Sections, and the dedicated efforts of individual volunteers.

I hope to see you at the upcoming SQA Annual Meeting, set to take place at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center from 6-11 April 2024 in Aurora, CO. This event promises to be a dynamic gathering of quality assurance professionals, industry leaders, regulators, and experts from around the globe. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rockies, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in immersive educational sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire innovation and collaboration. With a diverse array of topics ranging from regulatory updates to cutting-edge technologies, the SQA Annual Meeting at Gaylord Rockies is poised to be a transformative experience for all participants. Mark your calendars and join us as we chart the course for excellence in quality assurance. As we embark on this journey, I am inspired by the unwavering dedication and passion of our members. It is through your collective efforts, and your tireless commitment to excellence, that we will realize our vision of a world where quality assurance is not just a standard, but a way of life.

Over the past 22 years of my membership, my connection with SQA has deepened into a cherished relationship. I have been fortunate to forge enduring friendships and professional partnerships within our community, which I proudly consider my extended family.

I am immensely grateful to the current and former Boards for their unwavering dedication and commitment to SQA, with special recognition to the esteemed past presidents, notably our immediate past president, Cheryl McCarthy. Cheryl’s inspiration and guidance have prepared me to assume leadership within the Society, and I cannot thank her enough for her mentorship.

Each of you, past presidents, Board members, and my esteemed colleagues (too numerous to list individually), has left an indelible mark on me. Your challenges and unwavering dedication have fueled my passion for SQA, akin to the enduring glow of a ruby.

Moreover, if there is one individual I’ve encountered over the years who truly exemplifies the essence of the ruby theme at SQA, it is Richard Siconolfi. Richie has been a steadfast supporter, offering unwavering assistance not only throughout the past 22 years but also making remarkable contributions to the Society for over four decades and beyond.

In closing, when our friend and past president, Greg Furrow, penned his inaugural newsletter article back in 2014, he posed a challenging idea, or rather, a question. How can we extend our impact beyond our immediate circles to reach those we may not know, including individuals in the early stages of their careers or new to the realm of QA? How do we inspire passion in them, sharing our capacity for commitment and dedication not only to them but to everyone we encounter? How do we influence change and leave a lasting difference? Greg’s question resonates with us all, reminding us that each of us holds the power to make a meaningful impact.

I extend a challenge to each of you who are reading this: How can YOU make a difference? How can you showcase your passion, dedication, and commitment? SQA provides numerous opportunities for you to contribute and leave your mark. I encourage you to explore and consider how you can propel our profession forward, enriching the lives of others and shaping the future of quality assurance. Let’s embrace this challenge together and ignite positive change within our community.

I invite each of you to join us on this transformative path. Whether through active participation in our Committees and Specialty Sections or your volunteer efforts, your contributions are invaluable. Together, let us reignite that passion in us, and continue to navigate towards excellence, guided by our shared commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation.

Read the complete statement on the SQA website →