Saying she is "a listener with proven leadership experience who cares about ALSA," Malinda Norman has announced her intention to run for the Alpaca and Llama Show Association Board of Directors.
"I will use my education and business experience to promote growth and recruit new members to the ALSA organization," Norman said. "Like most of you, llamas are an integral part of my life and I want to work to make sure that everyone knows llamas and alpacas are fun."
Malinda shown with rescued llama, Dahli, as minature donkey looks on with his approval of new cria.
Malinda has been self-employed for over 30 years. Working daily with her husband, she has been instrumental in expanding and diversifying the businesses. Joining forces with her father in the early 80's, she was the driving force in adding computers to his livestock business. This resulted in the first computerized livestock commission company in the State of Texas. She graduated from Henderson High School in 1976, attended world acclaimed Kilgore College and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Design and Art from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX in 1980. She graduated with honors from both. Her education along with extensive professional experience will be an asset to the ALSA Board and to the members, staff and volunteers.
Malinda was born and raised in Henderson, Texas, and is actively involved in the same community. She has served as President of The Henderson Area Chamber of Commerce where she sat on the Board for seven years. She has served as President of the Henderson Lions Club and been an active member of the Club for 18 years. Norman was appointed by the City Council to serve as a member of the prestigious Economic Development Corporation to oversee a multi-million dollar tax revenue budget to promote economic growth, increase sales tax revenue and create jobs for the community. She was re-appointed for a second term.
Malinda has recently been appointed Chair of the Historical Commission's School Renovations Committee to evaluate three 1930's era buildings to determine alternative use and advise the community of any possible restoration efforts that will benefit the citizens of her County.
Malinda has been married to her husband, David, since 1982. They have a 16 year old son, Mac, and a 38 year old daughter, Shawn. They live on the 4th generation ranch alongside her parents, George and Marty.
They live with cattle, llamas, puppy dogs, kitty cats, guinea fowl, chickens, ducks, donkeys, horses,and all the grandeur of Texas wildlife.
Along with her family's encouragement, Malinda has received the support from the local llama community. She was nominated nationally by her peers who want her to bring her business experience and leadership to the ALSA Board.
"We must continue to focus on infrastructure and fiscal responsibility," Norman stated. "With the limited resources and variety of demands placed on our organization, the Alpaca and Llama Show Association, particularly the ALSA Board, needs to set priorities, work together in a civil manner, and focus on including volunteers and members in achieving these priorities."
"A successful and healthy organization has a diverse growth plan that includes both non-profit and for-profit partners," Malinda added. "The Board hasn't been able to work together to set priorities and work with members in a progressive and cooperative way to achieve growth in our industry. Confrontational styles have also alienated key industry partners who make significant investments in our llama community. Sound and efficient basic services, a solid capital investment plan to maintain and improve what we have, and innovative partnerships with our members to expand our industry are key elements to growing our community. We must govern with the integrity, maturity, and intelligence that ALSA deserves."
