Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/76076
"We're in a lot of different businesses," he says, "all of which are challenging. We have to make sure we're as competitive and as smart in each of those respective businesses as possible." As Chairman of the Board, he says he'll strive to make sure we make "smart big-picture decisions." "Jeff brings great business experience and has a passion for the WAC," President & CEO Chuck Nelson says. "He's served the Club well on the committees, and I look forward to working together as he brings his passion to his role as Chairman." Turning back to his other passion, Jeff THE BIG PICTURE If you want to make good decisions, you have to understand things thoroughly." Jeff's willingness to study subjects deeply— to open the books, if you will—has helped the WAC extensively through the years. He joined the Board of Governors in 2007 and the Executive Committee in 2008. "He puts his heart and soul into his commitments," Vice President Operations Bill Cohen says. "He's one of the strongest member leaders that I've worked with." Jeff also has sat on the HR & Benefits Committee and Audit Committee, and he's chaired the House Committee and Finance & Budget Committee. Not surprisingly, his career considered, he spent the most time on the Finance & Budget Committee, from 2002–2010, including back-to-back terms as Chair— and, hence, Club Treasurer—during the height of the recent recession. "He's been very gracious with his time and energy and brains," outgoing Chairman of the Board Rob Fleming says. Jeff's analytical approach involves digesting fastidious research and weighing complex questions that ultimately facilitate smart decision-making. "If you want to make good decisions, you have to understand things thoroughly," Jeff says. "I think the worst thing you can do is just stick to how you've done things because it seems to have worked." One of the interesting aspects of the WAC, he says, is the diversity of industries in which the Club operates. 30 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | AUGUST 2012 recalls meeting many artists through the years. One of his favorite stories involves Chihuly, who Jeff got to know more than three decades back through visits to the artist's old studio between South Lake Union and the freeway. One day, Chihuly told Jeff his distress about an Italian artist who was having trouble obtaining a U.S. visa. Chihuly admired the Italian's approach to leaf sculpture and wanted to learn from him. Somewhat bewildered, Jeff asked why it was such a big deal, adding "they're just leaves." Chihuly froze, staring at the WAC's future Chairman. "Oh Jeff," he said finally. "You just don't understand." Jeff smiles at the memory. Learning about glass art from Dale Chihuly is, after all, a good thing.