Letter to the Membership - Upcoming elections

Dear ISHBH members, The current slate of officers has been in office for too long! This was a necessity to get the ISHBH “re-established” after the death of our founding Chairman, Richard Wahlgren. With our recent approval of our tax-exempt status in the US and the transfer of our ISSN numbers (printed and electronic) from Swedish to American registration, we are able to move forward. Of the seven officers, four wish to step down at the end of their terms (John Murphy, Chris Bell, Luis Ceríaco, and Eric Hilton). Breck Bartholomew (Editor) and Ralph Tramontano (Managing Editor) are willing to continue in their positions. I (Aaron Bauer, Chair) am also happy to stay on in my position, but would also be content should someone else wish to take my place. Of utmost importance is the need for a new Treasurer. We seek someone with some experience for this position. While all other positions are open to any members, the Treasurer’s post is, for practical reasons, limited to members resident in the United States, where our bank (Wells Fargo) is located. Whole not an absolute necessity, it would be beneficial if the candidate for this position lived in a state with Wells Fargo offices (there are 37 such states), in case any future issue might require in person interactions at a branch office. It is likely that the Secretary’s role, at least in terms of managing the membership list will be combined with the main Treasurer’s function. We especially welcome candidates for any of the positions that would bring a diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and opinions to the ISHBH Board. A willingness to engage is required, but the total time commitment for most positions is limited. Most positions are suitable for students and all positions except the Treasurer are open to members worldwide. If you have been enjoying Bibliotheca Herpetologica and Wahlgreniana or have joined in our annual meeting, please consider a more active participation in the ISHBH and submit your name to stand for election. Please either nominate someone (with their permission) or self-nominate for a Board position by contacting me (Aaron Bauer) before (30 June 2025). IF you are interested in the position of Treasurer, you may request more details of the requirements from Eric Hilton. [Contact information can be found at www.ISHBH.com].