NIEAPA is successful due to our engaged and dedicated membership. This month, the membership committee will start a monthly "Member Spotlight" blog post series to feature and thank some of our most engaged members. 

This month's "Member Spotlight" interviewed Scott Cullen-Benson. Now retired, Scott has participated in EAPA events and programming for more than 40 years. Scott has served on NIEAPA's Board of Director's in the past and leads the raffle for NIEAPA's annual conference each year. Scott took some time with us to share his experiences and appreciation for NIEAPA:

1. Why did you join NIEAPA?

I joined what was then ALMACA after getting my first job as an internal EAP Coordinator with Reynolds Aluminum in 1983.  My manager was a strong advocate of this professional association and encouraged me to join local chapters.  I came a few days early to the National Conference for Reynolds’ yearly in-person team meeting and spent the rest of the week in the ALMACA workshops.  This gave me an opportunity to learn directly from others in the field which was invaluable since very few graduate programs taught classes in EAP management.

2. How has NIEAPA helped advance your career in employee assistance?

I can honestly say that I have secured every one of my EAP jobs through EAPA or NIEAPA contacts. I am continually amazed at how people in our association readily and willingly give advice and suggestions when asked. I have been on the international Board of Directors, served twice on the local Board and contributed to various NIEAPA committees. I strongly believe that one can only acquire the full benefits of NIEAPA membership through active engagement.

3. What is your favorite experience as a NIEAPA member?

Organizing the annual conference raffle has always been enjoyable for me. I also have met so many wonderful people during our informal luncheons after chapter meetings.

However, one of the most memorable and profound workshops we had occurred in the 80s. During this meeting, our long time, venerable members had the courage to speak to the group about serious mistakes made in the past and how they learned from these to improve their practice.  I never forgot how their vulnerability helped me improve my own EAP practice.