The Academy grew in many areas that year. A renewed focus on improving diversity within the ranks of The Counselors Academy was gained through the establishment of a Diversity Committee. A comprehensive survey of the needs and priorities of mid-sized and fast- growing agencies (members and non-members) was conducted, which gave solid data for programming and growth. Serving as a training tool for agency personnel, the Academy's popular Teleseminar Series also had a significant expansion.
1999 produced a hugely successful Spring Conference in New Orleans. "This conference was a record breaker both in terms of attendees and profit generated," said McGrath. "Most importantly, it received universally positive reviews from member evaluations."
After nearly 40 years, the Academy remains a rich organization for its members. Kathy Cripps, APR of New York City (2000 Chair) remains focused on member services, offering programs like Spring Conference and Monographs to members and programs such as Teleseminars and Leadership Seminar 2000 to the staff of members.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Davis Young (1984 Chair) was appointed "Chair of Chairs for this year's Spring Conference to capture the history and involve as many former Counselors Academy Chairs as possible. On the occasion of the Academy's 25th Anniversary in Orlando, Florida, April 1985, Davis's insightful words remain significant on this 40th Anniversary.
The world in which you and I live and in which The Counselors Academy functions is characterized by crises, by surprises, by new opportunities, by lost opportunities, by sands that shift and by two waves that are never exactly the same. The companion who walks at our side every hour of every business day is called by the name, Change.