PROFILE
Sun Roesslein , CSFM , ( left ) with her wife , Tracie .
SERVING OTHERS With each of those interactions and learning experiences , Roesslein was drawn more to industry service , and wanted to have an impact on the association that had so much impact on her career .
“ Early on in my career I looked at the people on the board as leaders in the industry and people who are there to serve and help the membership ,” said Roesslein . “ I always want to pitch in , help out and hopefully make things better . The K-12 segment faces unique sets of challenges , so that is always forefront in my mind .”
Now , for Roesslein , taking on the role as SFMA President is a career highlight .
“ It ’ s humbling . It ’ s exciting . It ’ s a little nerve wracking ,” she said . “ I ’ m really looking forward to working closely with [ SFMA CEO Laura Simmons , CAE ] to help her learn our industry and hopefully achieve our goals together . We have a very bright future ahead of us . I ’ m really excited for what Laura brings to the table , and I think we are on the road to really great things .”
Key focus areas for Roesslein in 2023 are SFMA ’ s strategic plan and helping ensure that Simmons is set up for success . Roesslein has also stated that SFMA ’ s collaboration with other groups in related industries is an area for growth , and it is important for SFMA to promote the value the association offers . For example , groups such as the National Recreation and Park Association have members who manage sports fields and who are not members of SFMA , but could benefit from the resources and knowledge SFMA and its members have to offer , she said .
“ We need to spread the word , get our name out there , share our expertise and make others aware that we are here to help .”
Added Roesslein , “ I ’ m really appreciative to have the chance this year to sit in the president ’ s chair . We all want to do really great things for our industry and our membership . I certainly didn ’ t get here alone . There are so many people who have helped along the way . A lot of people have impacted me , and I hope to be able to turn around and do that for someone else .” SFM
John Kmitta is associate publisher and editorial brand director of SportsField Management magazine .
24 SportsField Management | February 2023 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com