This month, we are featuring Leonard Turpen, CDM, CFPP, of the KS ANFP chapter. Leonard became a CDM in 1997 and began volunteering when the Jayhawk district formed. Eventually, he became district president, working his way up to chapter president in 2013 through 2016. Leonard is currently serving as the PAC chairman and serves on the Government Affairs Committee as well.
When Leonard first joined ANFP, he would sit in the back row at meetings and listen and observe. Then, he pushed himself, and slowly began to work his way up towards the front of the room at each meeting, eventually working up the courage to become involved as a leader. He encourages members to start moving forward at their own pace, until they're ready to get involved as he did with the support of Kansas ANFP members who helped him become the CDM he is today.
During his many years of volunteering, Leonard played a large part in the meeting planning process. This included overseeing food shows, managing the budget, vetting speakers as well as teaching fundamentals in healthcare at the chapter’s workshops. As an officer, Leonard’s biggest goal was continuous communication with the members. He also enjoys mentoring new CDMs as he recognizes they are the key to the future success of the chapter.
As for the what lies ahead for the KS ANFP chapter, Leonard would to see the chapter continue with Chapter Champions program and to revamp the online newsletter to make it user friendly with easy access to important links and resources. He would also like to see each district become more involved with new membership and leadership roles as well as participate in supporting community services.
One of Leonard’s favorite quotes and something he truly believes as well as demonstrates is: “unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.” (by Ralph Waldo Emerson)
Congratulations to Leonard and all his success and hard work! Thank you for your dedication to ANFP as well as the credential!
If you would like to nominate yourself or another volunteer, please email Abigail Solazzo at asolazzo@ANFPonline.org.