Our organization thrives on the dedication of our volunteers, who play a pivotal role in eight key committees: Association Governance, Membership, Election, Committee on Unethical Practices, Programming, Image Competition, Social, and Convention Committees.  Whether you can commit to regular involvement or prefer to assist at specific events, we welcome your contributions. Your passion and enthusiasm will make a lasting impact on our vibrant community of photographers. Help us shape the future of MDPPA, Join Our Amazing Team of Volunteers, and make a difference!

Committee roles and responsibilities:

The Association Governance Committee oversees the association's governing documents (Articles, Bylaws, and Rules). They regularly review these documents to ensure they are up-to-date, relevant, legally compliant, and being followed. The committee may seek legal advice as needed and propose changes to the governing documents for the Board and membership to consider and approve. The Chair of this committee also serves as the association's Parliamentarian

The Membership Committee is responsible for member outreach with existing members, driving membership growth, and surveying the member's needs for development. They are one of the first contacts our new members will encounter, helping them quickly understand what our organization offers and helping us understand how we can help them connect and grow! They keep their finger on the pulse of our membership and provide critical feedback to the other parts of organization regarding our success or needs for change. 

The Election Committee is responsible for executing and supervising the nomination of members for the Board as set forth in the Bylaws Article III, §3 and the Rules, Section III, (3), A - C. This committee will vet the candidate's and confirm they understand the requirements for each role. They will collect bios and other relevant material for the elections and are responsible for promoting the different stages of the process to our membership as the process unfolds each year. Once the ballots have been cast and counted, this committee will announce the newly elected Board Members.   

The Committee on Unethical Practices is responsible for hearing all claims of unethical practices brought by members and nonmembers against any member of the Association. The are responsible for keeping a complete record of all committee proceedings, which the Secretary will maintain for the Association. 

The Programming Committee is responsible for developing and offering educational programs to support members in their professional development. They are responsible for identifying the needs of our members regarding the appropriate types of educational programs that will elevate or inspire their photographic techniques or business practices. Determining which programs are best delivered in-person or remotely and collecting feedback on the programs success or learning lessons after they are delivered. This group is also responsible for assisting our Convention Chair in executing their vision for the Annual Convention. 

The Image Competition Committee is responsible for developing and offering opportunities for the membership to hone their skills through competition and judging. To acknowledge and bestow honors upon award recipients and share those works with the greater public. This group is focused on elevating the skills of our members through competition. Helping prepare our members for PPA degree pursuits like the Master of Photographer, Master Artist, or Master of Wedding Photography by challenging them to elevate their craft and push their limits.  Last but not least, they provide our members with exposure to a broader audience through securing opportunities for the Loan Collection to be shared publicly within the surrounding communities. The also help our members who don't compete elevate their skills through our Photo Review sessions. Allowing members to get personalized feedback from a seasoned professional about their client, competition, or creative work! 

The Social Committee is responsible for social activities throughout the year to celebrate accomplishments and foster relationships and comradery. This group is responsible creating the festive atmosphere and activities that accompany our Convention Banquet, Annual Picnic, and Holiday Party/Awards Ceremony. They also provide support and hospitality for all the other in-person events throughout the year.

The Convention Committee is responsible for planning and executing our Annual Convention. This event represents our largest investment in programming for our members each year. Our members are treated to a multi-day event, filled with dynamic speakers, hands-on learning and networking opportunities galore. Not to mention some great discounts, giveaways, and chances to bid on some awesome products from some of the biggest brand names in photography! 

Association Governance Committee

Chair/Parliamentarian: Hugh Moore

Members: George Singleton, Mike Thomas

Membership Committee

Chair: 

Members:  Ted Mueller

Election Committee

Chair:

Members:

Unethical Practices Committee

Chair: Richard Hackney

Members: Kenny Epps, Jill Bochicchio, Carrie Nelson

Programming Committee

Chair: Erica Beck

Members: Lee Bostic, Phil Fabrizio,  Ted Mueller, and Kristen Vickery

Image Competition Committee

Co-Chairs: Lidia Miller - Ellen Zangla

Member: Jay Cathell