Task force begins process of shaping NCA’s future

It is my pleasure to share that the NCA Strategic Plan Task Force has officially begun its important work on shaping the future of our association. The task force was approved in late 2025 and appointed in early 2026.

The primary aim of the task force is to shepherd the creation of NCA’s next strategic plan through a collaborative, member-centered process. This work includes conducting an all-member survey, engaging in association-wide listening sessions, engaging in dialogue with members and leadership, presenting document drafts to the Executive Committee (EC) and Legislative Assembly (LA), incorporating feedback, and ultimately advancing a strategic plan for LA approval in November 2027.

To support this process, the task force leadership is working closely with NCA Executive Director Justin Danowski and an external strategic planning partner to facilitate meaningful engagement and thoughtful planning. Throughout the process, the task force has been and will continue to provide updates to NCA leadership share preliminary findings from focus groups and listening sessions, and ensure that member voices remain central to the development of the plan.

Since its kickoff meeting in May 2026, the task force has been laying the groundwork for this important effort, including monthly meetings. In the remaining months of 2026, there are several ways that you as a member can be involved in this important process. We hope you will complete the all-member survey, participate in an online listening session, and be a part of listening sessions and activities at the 2026 Convention in New Orleans. In 2027, the work will expand through focus groups and member listening sessions, followed by drafting, reviewing, and refining the strategic plan. The timeline culminates with EC endorsement in August 2027 and presentation to the LA for approval in November 2027.

While we have an amazing collection of colleagues and national office staff members serving on the task force, this strategic planning process is something that belongs to all of us. Thus, I encourage you to participate in upcoming listening sessions and other engagement opportunities as they are announced via email and NCA’s website and social media platforms. I thank you in advance for sharing with us your ideas, experiences, and aspirations that will continue to help guide NCA’s future and strengthen our collective impact as a scholarly and professional community.

Thank you for your continued commitment to NCA! I look forward to building the next chapter of our association together.

In peace,

Tina M. Harris
President, National Communication Association
Douglas L. Manship Sr.–Dori J. Maynard Endowed Chair in Race, Media, and Cultural Literacy, Louisiana State University