“This is my EO journey”

The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) has been helping entrepreneurs achieve transformational growth since 1987.

Our member network is committed to learning and helping each other succeed. But this network of support and growth goes beyond members. It includes the hundreds of staff and chapter administrators who help  the organization run. Beth Chernick was EO New York’s chapter manager from 2003 to 2020. She shares her EO journey here. 

I had an absolutely wonderful 17-year run with EO.

My EO journey started in March 2003 when I was hired by then chapter president, Damon Gersh, and his board. My first EO assignment was to work at a learning event hosted by co-learning chairs, Jason Englander and Larry Zogby.

The speaker was Erin Brockovich, the well-known activist and subject of the highly acclaimed movie made in 2000, bearing her name. At the venue, I was seated at the registration table checking off names and meeting EO members for the first time. Everyone was so friendly. Erin’s presentation was fascinating (if you’re not familiar with her story, it’s worth checking out). I remember going home and thinking, “Wow, that was cool”! It was my first sip of the EO Kool-Aid.

A few months later, in May, I attended my first EO Global Leadership Conference (GLC), the annual training conference. Everything about it was first class–prominent keynote speakers, peer-to-peer learning and over-the-top dinners and socials at exclusive access venues.

Best of all, I met so many members, staff and my colleagues from around the world. All the while, my head was spinning with EO lingo, acronyms and new concepts. I knew I was experiencing something special and I was in my element.

Little did I know that several years later, as I established myself in my role as EONY chapter manager, I would be asked to facilitate the learning track for my colleagues at three subsequent GLCs. I was humbled and honored.

In my 17-year tenure, EO has enriched my life in ways I never imagined.

Working behind the scenes with 13 EO New York chapter presidents and 17 chapter boards, liaising with EO board members and staff, learning from expert speakers and traveling the world to attend regional conferences and EO Universities—all have been amazing, life-changing experiences.

I have grown tremendously, both professionally and personally. How can one not grow when surrounded by entrepreneurs and “leaders of leaders”?

Most important to me are the priceless friendships I’ve fostered—the EO bond that always welcomes with open arms no matter what, the bond that never breaks. EO members and families became my extended family.

As many have done over these past several months in quarantine, I’ve reflected on what’s most important to me at this point in my life. Life is short, and there is more I want to accomplish. And so, it is time for me to follow my heart to new adventures.

It has been a wonderful journey, an honor to serve you all. I will treasure my EO years and friendships always. Thank you to all who have supported me over the years. You are near and dear to my heart always. Last, but certainly not least, a huge thank you to my dear friend and long-time EONY member, Jack Kassel, who introduced me to EO so many years ago. I’m forever grateful.

I look forward to our paths continuing to cross.

– Beth Chernick 

P.S. Stay in touch! 

Categories: Inspirational Interview

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