Candidate Profiles Secretary Shari Bratt IT IS WITH PLEASURE THAT I announce my candidacy for the office of NADE Secretary. I have enjoyed performing the duties of this office for the past two years, and am seeking re-election at the NADE conference in Denver this fall. Since becoming a member of NADE in 1984, I have served in many capacities at the local, regional and national levels. I have worked at the Nebraska DDS since 1983, first as a Disability Examiner, and more recently as a Disability Hearing Officer. It has been a privilege to serve as the Nebraska Chapter President for the past nine terms. In addition to planning training seminars for co-workers, I have chaired Regional committees, including Awards and Nominations.

Since joining NADE, I have also had the opportunity to serve as Great Plains Regional President on two occasions. I was awarded the Charles O. Blalock award by my region in 1991, 1993, 1994, and 1997. Since 1989, I have been a regional representative to the NADE Advocate. As Awards Committee Chair in 1995-1996, I had the pleasure of presenting the awards program at the national conference in Chicago, Illinois. It is also an honor to be a charter member of the Council of Chapter Presidents. The training I have received through NADE conferences has been invaluable as I carry out my job duties. I feel that NADE is an organization which is a driving force in insuring that members have the necessary training and resources to do our jobs well. NADE’s voice is a powerful one in the ever changing arena in which we work. Throughout my membership in NADE, I have made it a point to familiarize myself with the issues that affect all of us in the disability determinations profession. I have enjoyed talking with many of you regarding shared concerns and new ideas to enhance our expertise in disability adjudication. I believe my continuous and active involvement in our organization speaks to my level of commitment to NADE and its goals. I am fortunate to have the support of my administrator, supervisor, and local chapter in my candidacy for Secretary. I respectfully ask for your support as well.