Changing of the Guard

2025 began with a great deal of uncertainty for many of us, but overall, the balance has been very positive. I am incredibly grateful for everything we have accomplished together, this post is intended a brief annual report. I grew in friendship with TAPIT Board members as we spent countless hours texting and talking while planning events.

Over the past year:

• TAPIT membership grew to 127 members
• We held our second hybrid conference, with two invited speakers, and welcomed 78 participants
• Our advocacy efforts expanded, including a Language Access Panel at the conference with members of the Tennessee legislature and judiciary
• Our website is fully up and running, including the TAPIT Member Portal for internal communication
• We completed the TAPIT Member Directory, including a state-of-the-art geographic search
• We expanded our Business Partners Program to include training discounts and alliances with sister organizations
• The Ardis Nelson Scholarship and the Ronny Tipps Scholarship continued
• Chattanooga received the “Unity in the Community” Award
• Participation in our most recent election reached 40%, and the new elected members: Matt Benton, Julia Ledesma de Rusiñol, and Felipe Fiuza complete the 2026 Board of Directors

Also, David Trinkle, John Mark Maust, and I completed our terms! Two years ago, when I ran for President, I shared goals focused on strengthening TAPIT’s foundation and bringing our community together. Seeing those goals become reality—and watching the organization grow with continuity and purpose—has been deeply rewarding.

In recent years, we celebrated TAPIT’s twentieth anniversary, honored our founders, and expanded westward across the state. We have also welcomed many new members, particularly medical interpreters, strengthening both our reach and our collective voice.

TAPIT will continue providing workshops and trainings for interpreters and translators while responding to the evolving needs of our industry. Although our terms are ending, David, John Mark, and I will remain involved and continue supporting the Board through committee work.

I encourage every member to get involved in TAPIT’s committees. You are the experts in your areas, and our advocacy efforts are strongest when we work together.

Thank you for your trust, your dedication, and your commitment to our profession. I am excited about TAPIT’s future and confident it is in excellent hands.

Happy New Year!

Coral Getino