A New Chapter for ACTEC
It isn't every day you see a shift of this caliber in an organization as entrenched as the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC). Come September 9, 2026, Jennifer Briggs steps into some mighty big shoes, with Deborah O. McKinnon's tenure setting a high bar over the last 17 years. McKinnon has sculpted ACTEC into its esteemed current form, and as the executive director emeritus until October, she'll be guiding Briggs through the baton handoff.
Briggs Brings a Rich Experience
Now, Jennifer Briggs isn't coming in green. Her recent record as Executive Vice President and CEO of the Texas Society of Architects paints a picture of someone who thrives in high-stakes leadership rides. It's no small feat managing over 8,000 members and a $6 million budget, but that's what she’s done since 2021. She’s played a key role in not only keeping the wheels turning but actively shifting gears toward future alignment and growth. Makes this upcoming leadership transition at ACTEC feel pretty promising, wouldn’t you say?
Before that, her near 20-year stint with the Indiana CPA Society speaks volumes about her loyalty and prowess in association leadership. Positions ranging up to President and CEO. Longevity like that? It signals deep-seated trust and capability, and that's exactly what Briggs will need as she tackles ACTEC's challenges and opportunities head-on.
A Legacy Built on Commitment
"Deb McKinnon's leadership has helped shape ACTEC into the organization it is today," said ACTEC President Margaret (Meg) G. Lodise. That sounds like more than just a passing compliment. It's a nod to the groundwork laid by McKinnon, whose legacy is as much about innovation as it is about stability.
How does one measure such impact? Well, under McKinnon, ACTEC's become a force in the trust and estate world, setting the standard in education, scholarship, and leadership. But let’s not ignore the fellow grumblings that usually accompany someone in charge that long. Transition times also bring about reflections, unsettling routines, and chances to shake things up for the better (or worse if handled clumsily).
Charting the Path Ahead
As the New Executive Director, Briggs has the roadmap; it’s her execution that'll count. So you might be wondering, what could she focus on? Meg Lodise seems to trust Briggs's track record of strategic growth and member-focused initiatives. Lodise emphasized Briggs's ability to steer such organizations effectively, likening her strategic prowess to a steadfast compass this ship will need.
Briggs is walking in with her eyes wide open. She plans to meet with Fellows, staff, partners, and stakeholders, aiming to adjust the sails by combining new ideas with solid traditions. This sort of groundwork should be about fostering mutual trust, especially when priorities are varied and expectations sky-high.
Why This Matters for Stakeholders
No doubt, this transition is significant for the broader sector. For those outside looking in, these leadership shuffles can shake things up beyond ACTEC's internal dynamics. Trust and estate laws and professional practices may see fresh perspectives if Briggs turns her strategic vision into action. Who knows, perhaps the winds of change could bring legislative insights and reforms that ripple into wider circles.
ACTEC’s value extends to technical commentary on legislation, not political stands. Its collaborative fabric has been its strength—and an area where Briggs's deep association experience could advance even more.
The Takeaway
This is a story unfolding, as Jennifer Briggs readies herself to leave an imprint on ACTEC, following undeniably big footsteps. The legal profession's elite congregation will be watching closely—and rightly so because what happens at ACTEC often influences practices elsewhere. Briggs's thoughtful approach, clubbed with a knack for innovation, makes for an intriguing watch.
