An Institute for the New Millennium.

• Author: Shewbridge, Charles W. III

Predicting the future is hard work. Shaping it is even harder. Thanks to the efforts of my predecessor, Les Ezrati, TEI is well positioned for the Year 2000. We have been taking stock and taking steps to shape our destiny in the 21st century. In March 1999, TEI's Board of Directors adopted a strategic plan confirming the Institute's vision as the preeminent association of business tax professionals whose mission is to serve its members and their employers through education, networking, and advocacy. And in mid-August, the Board approved an operational plan to advance that mission.

Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due

Before turning to my goals for the year, I want to first acknowledge the leadership and accomplishments of TEI's immediate past president. Throughout a year of professional challenges, Les Ezrati tirelessly worked to position the Institute for the millennium. His term was marked by a number of firsts and bests, including perhaps foremost the strategic plan. For example, Les was the driving force behind our initiative to provide discounts for first time member attendance at a TEI Conference -- a step that will yield dividends for the future.

Les was also an active supporter of TEI's expansion, both in Europe and in northeastern Wisconsin. Less visibly, he took a personal approach to encouraging member involvement. He importuned committee chairs and others in TEI's leadership to identify anyone making a contribution, whether in organizing a program, making a technical presentation, or drafting a submission. In turn, Les would send personal notes commendation. Many such "Lestergrams" were delivered during the year.

Finally, Les continually exhibited and honed his technical skills as he helped TEI leave its mark. Whether testifying on corporate tax shelters or on international tax simplification or leading TEI's liaison meeting delegations, Les demonstrated a nimble touch in providing simple, precise, and effective responses on questions about complex tax issues. During his term as President, he positioned the Institute as a key player in the most important debates about tax policy and administration. In short, Les helped TEI be a strong advocate of fair and consistent tax policies for business taxpayers. And he did all this while helping his company effect the spinoff of a "small" $8 billion worldwide business unit. Where he found the time and energy to do all that he did I do not know, but it is no wonder that H-P has selected Les...