Dear PCA members, 

As we move through the changing seasons, I have been reflecting on how spring often reminds us that transition is a natural part of growth. The weather where I live has certainly reflected that lately. Like any good Pennsylvania spring, one day feels like warm weather has fully arrived, and the next has us reaching for a winter coat again or experiencing all four seasons in a single day. The unpredictability can be frustrating, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of flexibility and meeting the moment.

As counselors, adaptability is something we know well. We support others through uncertainty, change, and transition every day, often while navigating those same experiences ourselves. The work we do requires us to remain grounded while adjusting to what is new, unexpected, or evolving. That ability to remain steady while embracing change continues to define our profession and the many communities we serve.

With that spirit of resilience and continuity in mind, I want to share an important leadership update for PCA. The Board has received the resignation of our President-Elect, Dr. Joseph Birli. We wish Dr. Birli well in his transition off the Board, and we are grateful for his service and contributions to PCA, particularly his work with the Conference Committee and PS-SAIGE. In organizational governance, it is common practice for a past president to step back into the role to ensure continuity and stability during times of transition. In keeping with this practice, I will remain in the role of President for an additional year, serving from July 2026 through June 2027. My priority will continue to be supporting the ongoing work of PCA, maintaining momentum around our organizational initiatives, and serving our members and the counseling profession across Pennsylvania.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate my dear friend and colleague, Dr. Kathy Richardson, on her election as the 59th President of PCA for 2027-2028. We are thrilled to welcome Kathy into this leadership role, and my continued service as President for an additional year helps support a smooth and thoughtful transition. Kathy has served PCA for many years through PASERVIC and as Chair of the Ethics Committee. She brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, and passion to the presidency, and I look forward to working alongside her as we continue shaping the future of our association.

As we move forward, I want to emphasize a spirit of looking ahead together. Times of transition provide an opportunity to strengthen our connections, reaffirm our mission, and continue building an association that reflects the passion and professionalism of our members. Thank you for your continued trust, support, and engagement with PCA. I look forward to what we will accomplish together in the year ahead.

With that in mind, I am excited to share several long-awaited updates from our recent Board meeting. We continued important conversations and planning related to PCA’s growth, member engagement, advocacy efforts, and professional development opportunities. The Board remains committed to strengthening our organization, supporting counselors across the Commonwealth, and building on the strong foundation established through your involvement and dedication.

We are pleased to announce the following updates:

• The Board has approved the next phase of the much-needed redesign of the PCA website. You can expect a refreshed pacounseling.org launching in Fall 2026.
• The Board has approved a plan to restructure PCA’s committee framework to better support member engagement, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness.
• The newly revamped Member Services Committee, formerly the Membership Committee, is being redesigned to better serve members in collaboration with representation from the Emerging Leaders Cohort.
• A new Leadership Committee will support both the Emerging Leaders Program and the Past Presidents Subcommittee, helping cultivate leadership development and continuity within PCA. 

Dr. Joe Charette
57th President of PCA