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Dear ITA professionals, colleagues, and friends,
We have experienced so many challenges and changes this year. I hope that you take a minute to catch your breath and realize what you/we have accomplished. As Maria Mendoza mentioned in her letter, we were able to connect virtually in so many ways beyond meeting with each other in person. Personally, I have felt that our strong online presence has helped me feel better connected to all of you throughout the year instead of just during the convention.
As Maria noted, the 2021 TESOL convention will be held virtually. I participated in the 2020 virtual convention last summer, and I must say that it was one of the best TESOL conferences that I have attended. While I was not able to connect with old friends like I would have in person, the benefit of getting to watch high quality video presentations on demand made up for it. In addition, I saw a more diverse presence of TESOL professionals than I ever have before at TESOL. I strongly encourage you to consider attending the 2021 convention. The reduced registration fee and no cost to travel make this convention very affordable.
Like during every TESOL convention, we will have our annual ITA interest section business meeting. This will be held virtually. More details will come as we work around the TESOL schedule.
Following the ITAIS business meeting, Belinda Braunstein and Cynthia DeRoma, our members at large, will be hosting a virtual social gathering via Zoom. Again, we will give you more details later about the day, time, and Zoom link to our event. Even if you are unable to attend the TESOL convention, we hope that you will attend our social gathering.
With this coming year of 2021-2022, I’m excited to serve as your ITAIS chair. Just from knowing how well you have supported one another in these virtual spaces, I look forward to connecting with you throughout the year. Thank you for your hard work in the ITAIS during these tumultuous times. My hope is that we continue to support one another both professionally and personally. I look forward to seeing many of you at the virtual business meeting or during our social gathering in the future.
All the best,
Stacy | 
