I am writing with great sadness to inform you that AANA Interim Executive Director John F. Garde, CRNA, MS, FAAN, passed away early this afternoon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. John, who was a dear friend and mentor to many of us, died from complications related to pancreatic cancer with which he was diagnosed just last week.

John was a pioneer and leader in his beloved AANA. His accomplishments and honors were remarkable by anyone's standards, yet he was humble to the core. In 1972 he became the Association's first male president, beginning a legacy of leadership that continued until his untimely passing today. From 1983-2001 he served as the AANA's executive director, returning to that role on an interim basis just this past February when the Board of Directors asked for his help during an important time of transition for the Association.

 

For those of us who were privileged to know and work with John on a more personal level, he was an inspiration. As I go forward in my career and service to the AANA, when I need guidance, reassurance, or an example to follow, I will recall John's wisdom; his calm, thoughtful demeanor; his playful sense of humor; his ability to handle difficult situations with tactful resolve; and his unmistakable leadership qualities. In short, John touched lives in ways that few people do. It was innate in him-a gift. During my presidential term, John was always there for me when I needed his wise counsel and gentle encouragement.  I will be forever grateful. All CRNAs should be grateful for the contributions John Garde has made to his profession and the AANA. Please remember him in your thoughts and prayers.

 

Unfortunately, because even in sad times like these the world keeps turning, the AANA Board of Directors has implemented an emergency plan to ensure the continuity of work in the AANA Park Ridge and Washington, D.C. offices. As John attested to me as recently as last week, the AANA is in good hands with a talented and dedicated professional staff at the helm. I am happy to admit that I knew this already, having worked closely with the AANA staff for several years now. Still, it was good to know John shared the same opinion.

As approved by the Board, I will assume the executive director responsibilities for the remainder of my term as president, and then, on August 13 at the first meeting of the FY2010 Board of Directors, I will officially be appointed as the interim executive director and fill that role until a permanent executive director is hired. The AANA Executive Director Search Committee is continuing its important work, and will be interviewing four candidates following the Annual Meeting. If all goes according to plan, a new executive director will be in place sometime this fall.
 

I appreciate the Board's confidence in my ability to assume the executive director responsibilities on an interim basis, and will continue to serve my Association and profession to the best of my abilities. John Garde would expect nothing less, and I know he'll be right there to lend his support.

 

Sincerely,

Jackie S. Rowles, CRNA, MBA, MA, FAAPM
President