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President's Letter: A Call for Board Nominations

Published on | Andrea Lehmkuhler | News & Updates
When we gathered at the Summit, I shared that a time would soon come for new voices to join the RIA Board. Time has flown, and now we find ourselves at that exciting moment—it's time to start considering who will help lead our incredible organization forward. 
Board nomination
Board nomination

Dear RIA Members

Reflecting on my own journey to the Board, I’ll admit I didn’t see myself as a typical candidate. Back then, I assumed the Board was for those with larger stores, more experience, or further along in their careers. But what I’ve come to understand is that the Board thrives when we bring together store owners and professionals from all stages, backgrounds, and perspectives. It’s the diversity of perspectives and experiences that truly makes the RIA strong.

So, if you’ve been considering it, I encourage you to take the leap. The Board needs voices from every corner of our industry, and that might just be your voice.

The nomination process is outlined below, but in brief: there is a nomination phase, an interview with current board members, and finally, a slate of candidates will be presented to the full membership for a vote. If you’re interested or have questions, I’m happy to chat further. Feel free to reach out to me directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

How to Apply:

In accordance with RIA bylaws, it's time to nominate members for the 2025 RIA Board of Directors. This year, we have 3 seats open for retail members, 1 for associate members, and 1 open seat for brands.

Any member in good standing is eligible to nominate themselves or others for election to the Board. All nominees will be reviewed, and from that pool, a slate of candidates will be presented to the membership for a majority vote.

Important Dates to Remember:

  • If you would like to participate or nominate a colleague, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by the end of the day on October 26, 2024. Include the nominee’s title and organization.
  • If you are nominating someone else, please ensure they confirm their nomination in writing by October 26, 2024.
  • The slate of candidates will be presented for membership voting starting November 11, 2024, with voting closing on November 18, 2024. The new Board will be announced shortly thereafter, ushering in our 2025 leadership team.

I look forward to seeing the future leaders of RIA emerge and working alongside them to continue the incredible growth and innovation of our industry.

Warm regards,
Andrea Lehmkuhler
President, Running Industry Association

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