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A great deal of hard work and perseverance led to the formation of HASA. For the first time in the early 70’s , independent-minded, school based administrators with a vision, had a voice to give members of the Hillsborough Association of School Administrators the means of providing a network and to be heard on proposed legislation of importance to the membership. The first Executive Director of HASA was Donald Ross Gillette. Following him were Lyle Flagg, Dr. Jack Lamb and currently Dr. John Miliziano, who serves the organization with energy, dedication and determination. Early Presidents included Glenn Barrington, Don Yoho and Dr. John Sessums. At one time, Dr. Miliziano was nominated President-Elect but never served because he was promoted to a district level position and only school based administrators were accepted as members. The organization was open to membership that way for some time. Currently, the membership spans the entire administrative groups and has recently included non-instructional managers, supervisors and coordinators. Mary Cunningham, President for the 2007-2008 school year, continues to provide Professional Development for HASA members, communicates legislative updates and of course, strives to increase membership. His priorities also include increasing other benefits to members. Although his previously mentioned predecessors have all retired, the association is pleased to report that at this time, has over 70 retired administrators who have remained members. Recent presidents include Lou Cerreta, Pat Smith, Dr. Ken Allen, Charlotte Valenti, Mark West, Nuri Ayres, Brenda Kearse, Sylvia Albritton, and Dr. Sandy Bunkin. As did its counterpart, (CTA) the Classroom Teachers Association in 1976, HASA formed as a non-profit corporation to facilitate its objectives and to limit liability of the dues-paying membership. That was done with the purpose “to promote the general welfare, encourage unity, and establish communication between the components and to exercise leadership forwarding the purposes and needs of the membership and of the public schools.” HASA emphasizes that there is strength in numbers and solidarity of purpose. HASA continues to grow and enjoys success in the improvement of working conditions and benefits for its over 725 members. Although the goals of the association have changed slightly during the past 30 years, HASA is becoming more politically proactive at the local and state levels. Providing members with greater opportunities to be involved in the organization, emphasizing improved communications, and providing many leadership opportunities have become the group’s priorities. HASA should be a force in education for many years to come.
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