On behalf of the officers for the Rio Grande Valley Counseling Association (RGVCA), I would like to welcome you all to the start of a new academic year.  We all hope that you had a restful yet productive summer.  I am sure that after our time to re-energize this summer we are eager to get started with our work to provide services to the populations we serve.  The officers of the RGVCA are looking forward to working with all of you in ensuring that individuals learn about our profession and the services we offer.  Whether we are school counselors and/or private practitioners our ultimate goal is to be of assistance to those who need the mental health services we provide.  In addition to providing services we are charged with advocating for our profession and for those who need our services. Together, in a unified effort, we can structure activities and events that will raise the awareness of many about our profession and the services we provide.  I am so honored that I will have the opportunity to serve as your President for the 2008-2009 academic year and look forward to the many opportunities we will have this year to meet, to network, to have some fun, but most importantly to SERVE.