According to my files, this is my 162^nd column for Meatingplace since I joined the Animal Agriculture Alliance team at the end of 2014 as director of communications. So much has changed since that time: the major campaigns and tactics of the animal rights extremist groups we monitor, how the Alliance approaches issues management and influencer engagement, the number and diversity of companies and organizations involved with the Alliance as members … Personally, I’ve gotten married, moved three times, and said hello and goodbye to a few different pets.

I’ve written previously about a significant professional change over the past few months as I stepped into the role as president and CEO of the Alliance at the beginning of May. It’s been an adjustment to take a step back from some of the day-to-day work of the organization that I’m incredibly passionate about to allow others to take the reins but I’m proud of how our small but mighty team has navigated the transition and is positioning the Alliance for an even brighter future.

With some significant personal milestones quickly approaching for me as well as learning the new responsibilities of my role, the time is right to take a brief hiatus from this column. I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who has taken the time to read my thoughts and insights on handling animal rights activism, engaging with key audiences and keeping ahead of trends. It’s an honor to be part of this faculty of bloggers and to contribute to such a well-respected publication with actively engaged readers. I’ve had so many engagement opportunities because of this column and thank everyone who has taken the time to comment or reach out (well, almost everyone — as you can imagine given the content I cover).

I’m planning to return to regular contributions this fall and look forward to bringing a renewed passion and fresh perspective. I’ll miss the opportunity to engage with you via this blog between now and then, but encourage you to stay connected with the work of the Alliance by following us on social media or reaching out to the team at info@animalagalliance.org.

See you later.

Taking a break

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