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LeadershipLeadership Chairman: Lorraine Dixon
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2025-2026
Once again, I am grateful for this appointment. I used my space in the monthly Auxiliare to refresh and review rules that we know. We can never review enough times.
I’ll close with blurbs from my handout at the beginning of the year:
Radiate a positive spirit and be a good finder
Use judgement….not make judgement
Reframe negative situations to reveal the opportunities.
Character is doing the right thing, even when nobody else is watching.
Be the first one to change, others will change in response
Make others feel special, honor them.
I’ll close with blurbs from my handout at the beginning of the year:
Radiate a positive spirit and be a good finder
Use judgement….not make judgement
Reframe negative situations to reveal the opportunities.
Character is doing the right thing, even when nobody else is watching.
Be the first one to change, others will change in response
Make others feel special, honor them.
In the audience, when visiting other than their own Unit, District etc. they should be escorted.
Remember that an error in protocol is not a major crime. If you are the Officer or Chair don’t be offended be gracious.
When the speaker concludes, you rise and thank them. If a gift is to be presented, do it at this time.
If newspaper or newsletter publicity appears following your guests appearance or if photos or informal pictures are taken during the meeting, it is a nice gesture to send these to your guest.
A letter of appreciation from you is a must; and an informal note from the President or chairman is a nice gesture. Remember your organization is indebted to any guest, speaker or entertainer who has taken time, trouble and expense to attend your meeting.
When there are distinguished guests present, Chairmen and Officers making reports address the Chair only - “Madam President”. The only exception given by Robert’s Rules of Order is that the speaker may address the Chair - “Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen”
Remember that an error in protocol is not a major crime. If you are the Officer or Chair don’t be offended be gracious.
When the speaker concludes, you rise and thank them. If a gift is to be presented, do it at this time.
If newspaper or newsletter publicity appears following your guests appearance or if photos or informal pictures are taken during the meeting, it is a nice gesture to send these to your guest.
A letter of appreciation from you is a must; and an informal note from the President or chairman is a nice gesture. Remember your organization is indebted to any guest, speaker or entertainer who has taken time, trouble and expense to attend your meeting.
When there are distinguished guests present, Chairmen and Officers making reports address the Chair only - “Madam President”. The only exception given by Robert’s Rules of Order is that the speaker may address the Chair - “Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen”
Leadership development techniques can be applied to any of THE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY Programs. Establish the objective, then ask:
WHAT actions are necessary?
WHY are these actions necessary?
WHO is responsible for the Actions?
WHEN will the action take place?
WHERE will the action take place? and HOW will the action be performed?
Happy planning to all. Happy Month of March!
WHAT actions are necessary?
WHY are these actions necessary?
WHO is responsible for the Actions?
WHEN will the action take place?
WHERE will the action take place? and HOW will the action be performed?
Happy planning to all. Happy Month of March!
As we begin another new calendar year (2026), let us renew an order of business (agenda). It’s always good to remind us of proper procedure. Call to order, Advancement of colors (optional), salute the colors if posted, Prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, Preamble to the Constitution of the American Legion Auxiliary, Roll Call, Reading and approval of minutes of previous meeting. Reports of officers, boards, and standing committees as called by presiding officer, Reports of special committees, Special Orders - elections/officers, installation/new member initiation, Unfinished Business, New Business, Announcements, Program - service project (mission) or educational and entertaining, Closing prayer, Adjournment of business meeting, Retirement of colors (optional)/salute to colors.
Northwest Division Chairman Amanda Washburn has written: “When most people hear the word LEADERSHIP they think that it isn’t for them or that it is too overwhelming and scary.
Some may have been thrown into a leadership role and aren’t sure what they need to be doing or what they got themselves into”.
There are many ways to overcome the fear of leadership, and they include seeking support, preparing and learning, embracing mistakes as growth, confidence through small wins, and shifting focus from self to service.
“Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference.” “It is never about the role — always about the goal.” Unknown
Some may have been thrown into a leadership role and aren’t sure what they need to be doing or what they got themselves into”.
There are many ways to overcome the fear of leadership, and they include seeking support, preparing and learning, embracing mistakes as growth, confidence through small wins, and shifting focus from self to service.
“Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference.” “It is never about the role — always about the goal.” Unknown
The National Leadership Committee (1972 - 73) published a guide for Leadership Development. How appropriate even in our 2025 – 2026 year are some of the following they listed as the Role of the Leader: The leader is the dynamic force that injects vitality and life into an organization. Every leader must have a sound and practical working knowledge of their organization. The leader is responsible for achieving proper organizational results. Every leader must be three persons at once: a “doer”, a learner and a teacher.
Welcome to President Kristin, the Department Officers and Committee Chairs and members. Together, we will all strive to have a great 2025-2026 Auxiliary year. I’d like to announce that I will be joined on the Leadership Committee by 2 great members – Ann Pennington and Alicia Heaney. Both have had success on other programs and I know we will work beautifully as a team.
Lorraine Dixon, Leadership Chair
Lorraine Dixon, Leadership Chair
Joined the newly chartered Unit #194 in 2005
Served in many roles and offices, being Secretary several years, then on to being the President for two terms.
I moved along to Second District, serving mostly as Secretary which included writing a monthly article for the District newsletter. This included obtaining articles from each committee member and writing a prayer , etc. and publishing it from my computer to all 2nd District members. I served as President of 2nd District with all the responsibilities.
In 2013, I moved on to Department. I was assigned as a committee member for Education Program. I had the best role model ( PDP Joan Tarrant) recently deceased. I served on the Education Committee for several years . I became Chairmen of the Education Committee for several terms.
In 2020 I became Chairman of Leadership. This was followed by several different terms as Chaplain, Dept. of CT. ( current )
Now, for the 2025 -2026 year, I am honored to serve as Leadership Chair once again. I have two terrific members serving with me.
Our focus will be on always remembering that Leadership is not about being the Best, .....Leadership is about making everyone else BETTER.
Lorraine
Served in many roles and offices, being Secretary several years, then on to being the President for two terms.
I moved along to Second District, serving mostly as Secretary which included writing a monthly article for the District newsletter. This included obtaining articles from each committee member and writing a prayer , etc. and publishing it from my computer to all 2nd District members. I served as President of 2nd District with all the responsibilities.
In 2013, I moved on to Department. I was assigned as a committee member for Education Program. I had the best role model ( PDP Joan Tarrant) recently deceased. I served on the Education Committee for several years . I became Chairmen of the Education Committee for several terms.
In 2020 I became Chairman of Leadership. This was followed by several different terms as Chaplain, Dept. of CT. ( current )
Now, for the 2025 -2026 year, I am honored to serve as Leadership Chair once again. I have two terrific members serving with me.
Our focus will be on always remembering that Leadership is not about being the Best, .....Leadership is about making everyone else BETTER.
Lorraine
2024-2025
Message from National - Inclusive Leadership,
Organizations are becoming more diverse, multicultural and multi-generational. As leaders in the American Legion Auxiliary, we need to learn how to navigate this rapidly changing world because inclusive leaders create inclusive environments. These environments produce higher performance, increase member engagement, fuel creativity, increase member retention and positively impact our mission.
A leader is someone who builds more leaders through vision, inspiration and inclusiveness. Becoming an inclusive leader is not as easy as it sounds. It requires a shift of thinking and openness to different ways of doing things. But when achieved, inclusive leadership does have great rewards and benefits for our organization.
Inclusion is not diversity, it is when all members are treated fairly and respectfully. Everyone has equal access to opportunities and can contribute fully to our organizations success.
Without inclusion, our environment can be toxic, rigid and untrusting. With inclusion, we will find that collaboration increases, trust is higher and new members are attracted to our organization and members are retained.
Minutes of a meeting:
Reminder: Do not move to accept minutes of a meeting. Per The ALA Guide Book and Robert’s Rules, the chair declares the minutes are approved as read, mailed, e-mailed or corrected. By putting the minutes to a vote, you open the possibility that everyone could vote not to accept the minutes and then you would have no minutes for that meeting.
Alcyne Welton, Leadership Chairman
Reminder: Unit member of the year entries are due ASAP.
As a leader, you should never be too busy to listen because it’s the ultimate form of respect any leader can give to their team. (Gifford Thomas)
At mid-winter I conducted a Leadership workshop. I provided eight problems to solve. Each group worked on one problem. They then had one person read the problem and how their group solved the problem. The reward was Valentine candy for everyone in their group. President Janice agreed to share these problems and their solutions with those who might not have been at mid-winter. The workshop promoted problem solving, communication and confidence in those who participated. Use these or similar ones in your units to enforce leadership. Attached to the Auxilaire find the example problems and suggested solutions. Why “This is How We’ve Always Done it” can hold us back. In organizations like the American Legion Auxiliary, tradition is a cornerstone of our identity and mission. However, clinging too tightly to the phrase, “ this is how we’ve always done it” can be detrimental to our growth and impact. When we resist change, we risk becoming stagnant and disconnected from the evolving needs of our veterans and communities. Embracing new ideas and innovative approaches can lead to greater engagement, fresh perspectives and enhance support for those we serve.
Let’s challenge ourselves to think outside the box. By fostering a culture of adaptability and open-mindedness, we can honor our rich history while also paving the way for a brighter future. Together, we can ensure that our organization continues to thrive and make a
meaningful difference.
Reminder: Unit member of the year award and unit narratives are due May 1st. Information on Unit Member of the Year is attached to this Auxilaire.
The National Leadership Committee held their quarterly meeting on January 13. The Departments shared a lot of good information. However, many Departments had a concern with bullying and not following governing documents. Most of the bullying came from seasoned members, PDPs, and current Officers.
Think before opening your mouth. Plan your words carefully. Set your tone to encouragement rather than bullying.
Read your governing documents before offering your opinion. Carry a copy of the National,Department, District and Unit Documents with you at all meetings. Not following the rules is a VIOLATION. A VIOLATION that should not be tolerated. It was funny to see the expression on many faces when these concerns were brought up. This appears to be an issue in more than one Department.
Review your Documents. Update them ASAP and send a copy to your District and the Department. Be sure to report to the Constitution and Bylaws Chairman that you have done so.
Alcyne Welton [email protected]
Please join us at Mid-Winter. My committee has some fun activities planned for all to enjoy. There will be break- outs for problem solving, committee planning, and much more. As always, there will be treats for those who participate.
A good leader is self-confident enough to allow someone else to have the spotlight. They know that they are not the only ones who can have ideas and opinions. For the leader, it serves as a way to empower and give people a voice, for the followers, respect, and trusting the leader increases. Give credit where credit is due.
A good leader usually has a strong sense of self-worth, but they don’t let this dictate their course of action. They are willing to acknowledge when they’ve made mistakes rather than trying to deny it or blame someone else. They are willing to say, “I was wrong,” and you are right.” These words can produce a lot of respect and trust between people.
Good leaders seek others’ input on “how they are doing” in their role. It takes courage to ask such a question and even more to consider the answer. Feedback is good-both the good and the not-so-good. We are always learning and growing.
Leadership word of the month - VISION- the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.
Alcyne Welton
[email protected]
A question has come up about voting to accept the Treasurer’s report at a meeting. This report does NOT come to a vote at a meeting. It is placed on file for the Risk and Compliance committee (formerly the Audit committee). At the end of the year the Risk and Compliance committee reviews the books and prepares a formal written report (google the proper way to prepare a report). That report is presented to the membership for discussion and a vote to accept or reject it.
The same question came up about voting to accept the minutes of a meeting. What if everyone voted not to accept them. The minutes are a legal document of what was done. The Chair declares the minutes approved as either read, emailed or corrected. Again you do NOT vote to accept the minutes.
Another question came up about wearing the ribbon of their office. There are ribbons for the unit level. They are not required. However, a unit may want to wear them for official events. It is up to the unit. They are available at emblem sales.
Alcyne Welton
[email protected]
It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit. Harry S. Truman
Leadership word of the month.
Accountability - the obligation to explain, justify and take responsibility for one’s actions.
Active leadership traits:
Positivity: Leading with positivity supports an organization. When there is more positivity, good things happen, more gets done, more members speak up and share, more creativity, and more members feel valued.
Outcome: Manage outcomes not the process. If a project is getting done on time, and it went well, let your members do the work they volunteered for. Do not micro-manage your members because this sends the message of mistrust, and they will not volunteer the next time. Don’t forget to thank them for the work they have done.
Collaboration: Be a leader who collaborates and doesn’t dictate. Collaboration is when the leader and the members cooperate on a common goal. Listen more than talk, as this supports trust and understanding.
Alcyne Welton [email protected]
Leadership tips from “Let’s Be Proper”, by Helen Lee Gilbert, Past National President, American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Connecticut
COMMON MISTAKES
1. Calling for acceptance of the address of the President.
The address of the President is accepted by the presiding officer without vote, as a courtesy to the President. It is not put to a vote.
2. Casting a unanimous vote or ballot by one person.
That is out of order. If such a motion is made, the presiding officer says, “all in favor of electing (name) please say ‘Aye,’ those opposed say ‘No’”. The motion is carried and (name) is declared elected.”
3.Referring to the Constitution and Bylaws as one document if there are two.
When amending or speaking of the Constitution and Bylaws, specify which document is meant. Under preferred practice today, the two documents are usually combined into one, unless the rules of the organization are very complex, such as the American Legion Auxiliary’s national organization.
4.Bylaws contain the provisions that are expected to have stability from session to session.
These rules, therefore, require both previous notice and a two/thirds vote for amendment. While Rules of Order require two/third vote for suspension, Bylaws cannot be suspended - ever!
5.Putting two different and separate items in the one motion.
If this is done, a division of the question should be called for.
6.Saying, “Are there any omissions, additions or corrections to the minutes?”
Remember that an omission or addition is a correction. Ask only for corrections to the
minutes.
7.Omitting call for a negative vote.
8.Asking that the vote be “unanimous.” According to Webster, “unanimous” means “all of the same mind.”
Americans are too individualistic to ever be that. Say instead, “The motion carried without a dissenting vote.”
9.Calling for minutes of the Executive Committee meeting.
Minutes of an Executive Committee meeting are not read for approval of the assembly. Only those who help make the minutes can approve them. Recommendations that require approval by the assembly are read as new business, and acted on at that time.
10.Always state the date of the previous meeting when calling for the minutes to be read.
Alcyne Welton, Leadership Chairman
Organizations are becoming more diverse, multicultural and multi-generational. As leaders in the American Legion Auxiliary, we need to learn how to navigate this rapidly changing world because inclusive leaders create inclusive environments. These environments produce higher performance, increase member engagement, fuel creativity, increase member retention and positively impact our mission.
A leader is someone who builds more leaders through vision, inspiration and inclusiveness. Becoming an inclusive leader is not as easy as it sounds. It requires a shift of thinking and openness to different ways of doing things. But when achieved, inclusive leadership does have great rewards and benefits for our organization.
Inclusion is not diversity, it is when all members are treated fairly and respectfully. Everyone has equal access to opportunities and can contribute fully to our organizations success.
Without inclusion, our environment can be toxic, rigid and untrusting. With inclusion, we will find that collaboration increases, trust is higher and new members are attracted to our organization and members are retained.
Minutes of a meeting:
Reminder: Do not move to accept minutes of a meeting. Per The ALA Guide Book and Robert’s Rules, the chair declares the minutes are approved as read, mailed, e-mailed or corrected. By putting the minutes to a vote, you open the possibility that everyone could vote not to accept the minutes and then you would have no minutes for that meeting.
Alcyne Welton, Leadership Chairman
Reminder: Unit member of the year entries are due ASAP.
As a leader, you should never be too busy to listen because it’s the ultimate form of respect any leader can give to their team. (Gifford Thomas)
At mid-winter I conducted a Leadership workshop. I provided eight problems to solve. Each group worked on one problem. They then had one person read the problem and how their group solved the problem. The reward was Valentine candy for everyone in their group. President Janice agreed to share these problems and their solutions with those who might not have been at mid-winter. The workshop promoted problem solving, communication and confidence in those who participated. Use these or similar ones in your units to enforce leadership. Attached to the Auxilaire find the example problems and suggested solutions. Why “This is How We’ve Always Done it” can hold us back. In organizations like the American Legion Auxiliary, tradition is a cornerstone of our identity and mission. However, clinging too tightly to the phrase, “ this is how we’ve always done it” can be detrimental to our growth and impact. When we resist change, we risk becoming stagnant and disconnected from the evolving needs of our veterans and communities. Embracing new ideas and innovative approaches can lead to greater engagement, fresh perspectives and enhance support for those we serve.
Let’s challenge ourselves to think outside the box. By fostering a culture of adaptability and open-mindedness, we can honor our rich history while also paving the way for a brighter future. Together, we can ensure that our organization continues to thrive and make a
meaningful difference.
Reminder: Unit member of the year award and unit narratives are due May 1st. Information on Unit Member of the Year is attached to this Auxilaire.
The National Leadership Committee held their quarterly meeting on January 13. The Departments shared a lot of good information. However, many Departments had a concern with bullying and not following governing documents. Most of the bullying came from seasoned members, PDPs, and current Officers.
Think before opening your mouth. Plan your words carefully. Set your tone to encouragement rather than bullying.
Read your governing documents before offering your opinion. Carry a copy of the National,Department, District and Unit Documents with you at all meetings. Not following the rules is a VIOLATION. A VIOLATION that should not be tolerated. It was funny to see the expression on many faces when these concerns were brought up. This appears to be an issue in more than one Department.
Review your Documents. Update them ASAP and send a copy to your District and the Department. Be sure to report to the Constitution and Bylaws Chairman that you have done so.
Alcyne Welton [email protected]
Please join us at Mid-Winter. My committee has some fun activities planned for all to enjoy. There will be break- outs for problem solving, committee planning, and much more. As always, there will be treats for those who participate.
A good leader is self-confident enough to allow someone else to have the spotlight. They know that they are not the only ones who can have ideas and opinions. For the leader, it serves as a way to empower and give people a voice, for the followers, respect, and trusting the leader increases. Give credit where credit is due.
A good leader usually has a strong sense of self-worth, but they don’t let this dictate their course of action. They are willing to acknowledge when they’ve made mistakes rather than trying to deny it or blame someone else. They are willing to say, “I was wrong,” and you are right.” These words can produce a lot of respect and trust between people.
Good leaders seek others’ input on “how they are doing” in their role. It takes courage to ask such a question and even more to consider the answer. Feedback is good-both the good and the not-so-good. We are always learning and growing.
Leadership word of the month - VISION- the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.
Alcyne Welton
[email protected]
A question has come up about voting to accept the Treasurer’s report at a meeting. This report does NOT come to a vote at a meeting. It is placed on file for the Risk and Compliance committee (formerly the Audit committee). At the end of the year the Risk and Compliance committee reviews the books and prepares a formal written report (google the proper way to prepare a report). That report is presented to the membership for discussion and a vote to accept or reject it.
The same question came up about voting to accept the minutes of a meeting. What if everyone voted not to accept them. The minutes are a legal document of what was done. The Chair declares the minutes approved as either read, emailed or corrected. Again you do NOT vote to accept the minutes.
Another question came up about wearing the ribbon of their office. There are ribbons for the unit level. They are not required. However, a unit may want to wear them for official events. It is up to the unit. They are available at emblem sales.
Alcyne Welton
[email protected]
It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit. Harry S. Truman
Leadership word of the month.
Accountability - the obligation to explain, justify and take responsibility for one’s actions.
Active leadership traits:
Positivity: Leading with positivity supports an organization. When there is more positivity, good things happen, more gets done, more members speak up and share, more creativity, and more members feel valued.
Outcome: Manage outcomes not the process. If a project is getting done on time, and it went well, let your members do the work they volunteered for. Do not micro-manage your members because this sends the message of mistrust, and they will not volunteer the next time. Don’t forget to thank them for the work they have done.
Collaboration: Be a leader who collaborates and doesn’t dictate. Collaboration is when the leader and the members cooperate on a common goal. Listen more than talk, as this supports trust and understanding.
Alcyne Welton [email protected]
Leadership tips from “Let’s Be Proper”, by Helen Lee Gilbert, Past National President, American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Connecticut
COMMON MISTAKES
1. Calling for acceptance of the address of the President.
The address of the President is accepted by the presiding officer without vote, as a courtesy to the President. It is not put to a vote.
2. Casting a unanimous vote or ballot by one person.
That is out of order. If such a motion is made, the presiding officer says, “all in favor of electing (name) please say ‘Aye,’ those opposed say ‘No’”. The motion is carried and (name) is declared elected.”
3.Referring to the Constitution and Bylaws as one document if there are two.
When amending or speaking of the Constitution and Bylaws, specify which document is meant. Under preferred practice today, the two documents are usually combined into one, unless the rules of the organization are very complex, such as the American Legion Auxiliary’s national organization.
4.Bylaws contain the provisions that are expected to have stability from session to session.
These rules, therefore, require both previous notice and a two/thirds vote for amendment. While Rules of Order require two/third vote for suspension, Bylaws cannot be suspended - ever!
5.Putting two different and separate items in the one motion.
If this is done, a division of the question should be called for.
6.Saying, “Are there any omissions, additions or corrections to the minutes?”
Remember that an omission or addition is a correction. Ask only for corrections to the
minutes.
7.Omitting call for a negative vote.
8.Asking that the vote be “unanimous.” According to Webster, “unanimous” means “all of the same mind.”
Americans are too individualistic to ever be that. Say instead, “The motion carried without a dissenting vote.”
9.Calling for minutes of the Executive Committee meeting.
Minutes of an Executive Committee meeting are not read for approval of the assembly. Only those who help make the minutes can approve them. Recommendations that require approval by the assembly are read as new business, and acted on at that time.
10.Always state the date of the previous meeting when calling for the minutes to be read.
Alcyne Welton, Leadership Chairman
