When I joined ACTO over 9 years ago, my goal was to learn how to create a bigger, better, coach training program. And at my first ACTO Conference, I felt small, and rather intimidated, to be among the best and brightest in coach education. Yet I quickly learned that ACTO members were caring and insightful people who opened their hearts and their doors to my questions and concerns. Of course, as well-trained coaches, ACTO members don’t tell you how to create a better program, but hold the space for you to learn, stumble and get up again, while offering guidance, friendship and support throughout the process. I learned that “I don’t know what I don’t know” and that it’s OK. Actually, that place of unknowing is a wonderful place in which to grow and remain open to the wisdom of others.

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one’s ignorance.
~ Confucius

The 2019 ACTO Conference in Victoria, BC, led brilliantly by our past president, Halli MacNab, provided a solid foundation for ACTO’s mission to cultivate best practices and integrity in coach training through connection, collaboration, exploration and joy. We want to continue to provide a safe space for all member organizations to dig deeper into the aspects of the ACTO Stand for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging and incorporate them into our coach training programs. As Halli reminded us, coaches are in a position to lead the way for global change. And here is no time to waste!

As your incoming president, I will hold space for each of you, finding new ways to support current and prospective ACTO members. I ask that you step forward and become more involved in ACTO by serving on one of our committees. By being an active member, I can honestly say that I receive much more than I give. My thanks to all our volunteers and to the board, past and present, for their tireless efforts to move ACTO forward. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead our organization into a deeper exploration of the ACTO Stand, and with your help, expand our reach as THE professional organization for coach education worldwide.

In gratitude and service,

Jodi Sleeper-Triplett, ACTO President

P.S. THIS JUST IN!! Coach trainers in The Netherlands have agreed to become the FIRST ACTO Chapter, led by ACTO Member Johan van Bavel. And, coach trainers in The Arab League have contacted ACTO this week to discuss starting a regional chapter of ACTO. Will your part of the world be next?