Dear ADC Family,
Over 20 years ago I was given an opportunity to join ADC as an intern, an experience that would change my life forever. Almost ten years ago, I was once again given a unique opportunity, and that was to become the ADC National President – an opportunity which I could not pass up. As you all know, I was supposed to transition out of the role of President in 2020, but then the COVID pandemic struck the country. I was asked to continue in my role until the pandemic subsided.
After much reflection and consideration, I have made the decision that the time has come for me to move onto the next phase of my life. So, it is with both great sadness and excitement that I announce that I will be transitioning out of my role as National President of ADC. Now things have normalized post-COVID, it was decided that my transition out of my role as President will be final at the end of August.
I took the role during what was a challenging time for the organization and community. ADC was facing great obstacles, and I knew the work would be difficult; however, I would not shy away from the challenges. During my tenure as President, ADC has reconnected with its core mission – protecting the rights of Arab Americans and uplifting our rich culture and heritage. ADC has recommitted itself to its legal roots, and the organization is now on the leading fronts of community legal and policy work. We made strides in rebuilding our chapters and grassroots presence across the country. We also navigated the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic, which was a challenging time for all of us. I believe I have completed most- if not all- that I set out to do when I started.
I am grateful for all that ADC has done for me professionally and personally. While I will no longer hold the position of President, ADC will always remain in my heart and in my mind. I will continue to be a supporter and active member of the organization and will continue to volunteer my time to serve the community. I have agreed to stay on to help during a transitional period – this will help to assure a smooth transition to new leadership. I have also agreed to continue my service to ADC as a member of the National Board of Directors in the near future.
I would be remiss if I did not thank the dedicated and talented staff and volunteers I had the honor of working with throughout the years at ADC. During my tenure, I had the opportunity to meet and work with ADC chapters and members across the country – each of you helped shape me and the organization, and for that I am forever grateful. I want to also recognize the partners and allies who stand with and by ADC as we collectively fight for all our communities.
I wish the entire ADC family much success in the future. Our community is facing many challenges, and there is a need for ADC now more than ever. I encourage everyone to continue showing the organization the same support as you’ve shown me.
In solidarity,
Samer E. Khalaf, Esq.
ADC National President