Crystal Compass Recognition by IFA's WFC

I have been very fortunate in my life, and career, to have met some really wonderful individuals. People who are caring, passionate, devoted leaders that enjoy sharing their knowledge with others. One of these such people is Saunda Kitchen. Saunda and her husband Paul are multi-unit Mr. Rooter(r)franchisees in California. In one week I will have the great pleasure, and honor, of flying to San Antonio, TX to recognize Saunda as the first-ever franchisee recipient of the Crystal Compass. Since 2001, the Women's Franchise Committee has proudly bestowed the honor of the Crystal Compass upon a successful leader in franchising. The Crystal Compass was established to recognize an IFA member who has made significant contributions within their franchise organization, the franchise community or community in which they live. Ultimately, it recognizes leadership. Examples of such leadership include undertaking a project to greatly improve the working environment of employees; successfully managing a dramatic change in the organizational nature of the company; fostering or promoting awareness of franchising to the non-franchising community; spearheading activities designed to promote or develop franchise relationships within the franchise community; or conducting volunteer work with third party organizations relating to leadership. Saunda is currently secretary of the IFA’s Franchisee Forum and is also Co-Chairing the IFA’s Franchise Congress initiative. Saunda has been involved with franchising since 1996. Saunda was named Woman of the Year for Mr. Rooter in 2008 and was also named to the Top 40 under 40 Leaders of the North Bay in California in 2008. Recently she developed a Zees for Zees outreach program which lends financial and motivational support to start up or struggling franchisees. She and Paul, along with their 5 children, live in Sonoma County, California. Saunda - it's a pleasure to know you and I can't wait for next week!

Next week the best and brightest minds in franchising will infiltrate San Antonio for the International Franchise Association's 50th Anniversary annual convention. This is a must-attend event for any franchisor or supplier to the franchise segment. Franchisees will also find beneficial programming at this excellent event. I am personally very much looking forward to reconnecting with the many wonderful folks I have met over my past ten years in franchising - see you soon my friends! Until then, have a SUPER day!