Yes, we can: maintaining preeminence in an evolving economy.

• Author: Traubenberg, Neil D.

When Vince Alicandri installed me as Tax Executives Institute's 2009-2010 International President in early August, the wiseacre in me prompted two quips:

"Let me start by thanking the members of the Academy and the Foreign Press who voted for me...."

"Today, I am a man...."

Even then, I was not done cracking wise: "I am not going to use the line about having big shoes to fill in succeeding Vince, because I probably have the biggest shoes of any TEI President already."

But, of course, I did use the line because, like many people, I have a tendency to use humor to relieve the tension that often comes with serious times and serious events. Becoming TEI's president is one such time. Even in the best economic times, it would be daunting (and humbling) to lead a group as storied and successful as Tax Executives Institute has been for 65 years. But given the seriousness of our current economic environment and what it means for our country, the business community, and the Institute, the desire to keep things in perspective (by humor or otherwise) cannot be overstated.

Heartfelt Thanks to My Predecessor

Joking aside, I want to express my appreciation for the opportunity to serve as TEI president. I also want to express my gratitude for the leadership and vision of my predecessor, Vince Alicandri of the Toronto Chapter. I cannot quantify how much I learned from Vince this past year, but I will be a better president (and, indeed, a better tax executive) because I was able to observe and learn from his demeanor and approach as he led TEI. If you want to find Vince's picture in the dictionary, look up the word "class." Vince is a true gentleman as evidenced by the way he comports himself, the way he speaks, the way he acts.

When Vince Alicandri became president a year ago, none of us realized the tremendous challenges that TEI would face in light of the global fiscal turmoil. Vince guided the Institute through those challenges--decreased attendance at our educational programs, a reduction in investment and sponsorship revenue, and a dip in membership--with a steady hand and an unwavering commitment to the organization. There were tough decisions to be made, and he made them fairly and resolutely. TEI could not have been better represented than it was this past year. I thank him for his service to TEI, for his guidance and counsel, and for his friendship.

I also owe a debt of gratitude to innumerable others who have supported me and guided me throughout...