Samantha Enslen President, Dragonfly Editorial Number of years in editing: 24 years
Why do you choose to serve on the ACES Board of Directors?
I just plain love copyediting. Love the work, love the art and craft involved, love studying it. Why wouldn't I want to be part of an organization that promotes copyediting and trains copyeditors?
What is your favorite ACES memory?
My very first ACES conference, in St. Louis. There was a reception in the open-air bar on the top floor of the hotel. It was a beautiful night; the place was packed to the gills. I found myself nose to nose with an unassuming guy wearing blue suede loafers. I said something on the order of, "wow, awesome shoes!" He thanked me, and we stared at each other awkwardly before moving on. I realized only later that that was Bill Walsh, and understood yet later what he meant to our profession.
How do you balance your time as an editor with your time serving on the ACES Board of Directors?
This used to be quite a challenge, but it's become much easier since Abbi Booth joined us as ACES' Executive Director and Kim Lawyer joined us as Communications Manager. ACES is moving to a place where knowledgeable staff run day-to-day operations, and board members serve in an advisory capacity, bringing industry insights and trends to the staff and helping them set ACES' strategic direction.
What advice do you have for others who are looking to serve in a leadership role?
There is no better way to supercharge your career than to join a professional association (like ACES!) and volunteer just as much as you can, including in leadership positions. You'll meet so many people and learn so many new skills. Raise your hand and volunteer. It's worth it.
What city/state do you live in? If someone was visiting your city/town what is one place you would recommend they visit?
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.