I am so thankful to have been able to attend this year's NEAFCS Annual Session held in San Antonio, Texas September 24-27. As the saying goes, "everything is bigger in Texas." This held true with our Texas Affiliates hosting one of the largest sessions in attendance in years. There were over 890 colleagues, including almost 200 first time attendees. Our association, whom may not be as large as some affiliates, represented Illinois proudly with a staggering 12 of us in attendance.

I attended as many concurrent sessions as possible and walked away with many ideas and inspiration. For me, the highlight was the in-depth session, "Leadership Extension." It was held at the Fort Sam Houston military base in the Medical Museum, and featured officers in the United States Army highlighting military leadership and philosophy. No one knows leadership like the military! I learned how to write my own leadership philosophy and how to apply it in the many leadership roles I have, including IEAFCS president. It was an experience that I will remember for quite some time!

Congratulations to all of those who won regional and/or national awards. Illinois took away several awards, and I hope we continue that trend in the coming years. We all do such great work; it's nice to get recognition for it! A big applause also goes to Chelsey Byers Gerstenecker who presented her work with the four-part Brain Health series. Lastly, thank you to all of those who volunteered their time at the session; you helped make it a success. The Riverwalk, Alamo, countless restaurants, (oh, and let's not forget the scooters) and the comradery built amongst us, made this trip even that much better!

Jenna Smith, MPH, RD

IEAFCS President