Luncheon Keynote Speaker Addresses Army Reform

The chapter transitioned into the summer with its monthly luncheon held in May. Government and industry officials showed their dedication and proactive business efforts by attending the event, engaging with the keynote speaker and participating in an open-ended and lively discussion. The highlight was Robin P. Swan, director, Office of Business Transformation, Office of the Secretary of the Army, Washington, D.C., who delivered an engaging, direct and informative speech about Army Reform and Futures Command. For those who missed the lunch, no need to fret because here is the rundown on what transpired during the day. Starting off the luncheon on an interactive note, attendees filtered into the Sheraton of Tysons Corner, Virginia, where they had the opportunity to network and expand their business connections. When the main doors opened, it was unclear whether it was the carrot cake or chimes that enticed people to come in. All chapter members should note that there was an update to the bylaws announced. Instead of only members of the board of directors or their proxy voting at any board meeting, members of the board of directors and the key committee chairs of Women in Nova, Young AFCEANs and Small Business, or their proxy, shall vote at board meetings. Nominees for next year's board of directors were also announced. The chapter recognized Rebekah deButts of Forrester as the Young AFCEAN of the month for her outstanding volunteer efforts and contributions to the organization. Multiple awards were received throughout the first half of the lunch, including the SuperNOVA award, which went to Kristyn Jones from KPMG. The AFCEA International War Veterans Scholarship was given to Saim Bashir, a junior at George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia. Moving onto the more technical portion of the lunch, Swan enlightened the audience on Army Reform and Futures Command. For some background, Swan joined the Office of Business Transformation in January 2011. As director, he is responsible for managing, supervising and coordinating the Office of Business Transformation's efforts in support of the undersecretary of the Army. Swan touched on strategic alignment with the Office of the Secretary of Defense Reform, an Army strategy, mentioning that it is imperative to implement aggressive reforms by 2020 to free up time, money and manpower for our highest priorities and to empower subordinate commanders to make more timely and effective decisions. There is a need to create a culture that unifies talent, capabilities and infrastructure across the Future Force Modernization Enterprise to strategically and effectively develop and deliver future force. In closing, the May luncheon included time to thank Swan for his insight and expertise and congratulate honorees receiving awards.