Heather E. Saunders Owner, Just the Write Type Number of years in editing: 15 years
Why do you choose to serve on the ACES Board of Directors?
I was grateful for how much ACES gave to me as a new member and I wanted to give back. Volunteering my time, energy, and experience to support learning and development opportunities for other editors is a privilege.
What is your favorite ACES memory?
There are so many to choose from! The one closest to my heart, though, is from my first conference—Las Vegas in 2014. I was attending my first dictionary session, surrounded by other editors who all seemed just as excited to be there, a cup of green tea warming my hands, and I was overcome with a feeling of belonging and a sense of community.
How do you balance your time as an editor with your time serving on the ACES Board of Directors?
The best I can! As with most things, it’s a matter of planning.
What advice do you have for others who are looking to serve in a leadership role?
Focus on why you want to serve and what you, specifically, can bring to the role. I first volunteered to help manage the Freelancer Directory, which grew into the Editors for Hire page, because as a freelancer, I knew how valuable it could be for others. Identify the unique ways you can contribute.
What city/state do you live in? If someone was visiting your city/town what is one place you would recommend they visit?
Boston, MA. Although my personal favorite place to visit is the USS Constitution (aka Old Ironsides), I think everyone would love seeing the Make Way for Ducklings statue in Boston Public Garden: Mrs. Mallard leading eight adorable bronze ducklings—Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack. All nine are regularly dressed up for events or the changing seasons, and they are always a delight to see.
Are you interested in serving on the Board of Directors?
ACES conducts elections each February for its Board of Directors. The number of positions varies by year, as the officer and board positions are staggered.
Nominations are accepted Dec. 15 to Jan. 15 each year. Voting takes place Feb. 15 through March 1 each year, by members in good standing as of the previous Feb. 1. Information on the candidates is posted online before voting begins.