Kim Graves to Provide a New Perspective Post-Pandemic as Newly Elected Board Chair

RESTON, VA (July 21, 2021) – Joining Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) with more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism field, Kim Graves was elected at the FCCLA Hybrid National Leadership Conference in Nashville, TN, to serve as the national Board of Directors Chair for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. Having previously been a board member for three years and possessing over 14 years of involvement in FCCLA, Kim is excited to continue moving FCCLA forward and lead the organization through the strategic planning process year ahead.

“As a business and industry professional, I feel somewhat as an outsider to the organization as I am not a Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) educator but support FCCLA’s mission and see the value the organization adds to students’ lives and our society as a whole,” said Kim. “I hope to use my unique perspective and professional experiences to provide a visionary and holistic approach during my term.”

Outside of Kim’s newly appointed role, she is the National Account Director for Travel Portland. As a frequent business traveler, Kim plans to use her time on the road to connect with FCCLA Members, Chapter Advisers, and State Advisers across the country to thank them for the work they do. In addition, Kim wants to focus this year on building relationships, increasing membership, strengthening financial security, and promoting inclusion, access, equity, and diversity within FCCLA.

“Kim is an FCS education Career Pathway industry leader who we are excited to have investing her talents to lead FCCLA through this upcoming fiscal year,” said Sandy Spavone, Executive Director of FCCLA. “I am confident that her commitment to advancing FCCLA and FCS education coupled with her extensive experience in the work of association leadership and the hospitality and tourism industry will help contribute to the continued success of the organization. I look forward to the perspective and partnership lens she will provide.”

Kim will preside over her first FCCLA National Board Meeting as Board Chair on Monday, August 9, 2021, at FCCLA’s National Headquarters in Reston, VA.