Gary Betts, FCSI, CCS, Lifetime Member, Past Institute President,
passed away Sunday the 17th of August 2008

Gary, a Fellow of the Institute, took the reins of leadership in 2004 as the Institute President. His leadership style was refreshing, sincere, and professional. He inspired the Board and the staff as they worked diligently in the pursuit of successful growth based on knowledge and the best interests of the membership. As president, his focus always was centered on motivating those around him to improve the member experience while staying committed to the importance of CSI’s grass-roots foundation — its Chapters.

In 2005, Gary moved into the position of Immediate Past President. Some would think that this position is little more than a title, but not Gary. During his term, while meeting his responsibilities to the Board, he served as Chairman of the CSI Foundation and Chairman of the first Governance Task Team. During this time CSI’s Board was actively working with a consultant to review governance, the member experience, and CSI’s image. In addition, Gary served on the Executive Director Search task team, a group established to find the next Executive Director of CSI.

In 2007 Gary joined the Nominating Committee and was Chairman up to his last day.

CSI wishes his wife Pam, his family and friends the best, Gary was an inspiration to so many in CSI and we will all miss him.

If you have any special thoughts or memories that you would like to share, feel free to email John Tomaszewski for inclusion in the upcoming newsletter.