Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Tom Farley has notified me of his intent to step down as CEO, effective December 31, 2012.  Tom has been a tremendous asset and valuable member of the AAR family these past 15 years. He has taken our grassroots advocacy and political lobbying to a new level — and for that I know we are all grateful.  As CEO, his focus has been member-driven to “move the ball” with regards to benefits, services and quality.  The staff at AAR is second-to-none and his impact has strengthened that core.  Tom is leaving to pursue an opportunity that he has had; a dream he did not want to pass by.

The AAR Executive Committee will convene on Tuesday, November 20th to formally accept Tom’s exit as CEO and authorize actions for a seamless transition. The AAR Bylaws provide in the absence of the CEO, the duties of the position revert to the Assistant CEO.  Michelle Lind, as our General Counsel and Assistant CEO, is working with the AAR Line Officers as we move forward to build on the association’s past success. The leadership team has tremendous confidence in Michelle and the entire AAR staff.

Please join me in thanking Tom for all of his efforts on our behalf and wish him well on the endeavors he is pursuing for himself and his family.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact myself or Michelle Lind.