[DIYbio] Fwd: [biocurious] Important Update from Kristina

I am writing to let you know I will no longer be involved in day-to-day operations for BioCurious. As you know, I have been open about our precarious cash position since December of last year. Raymond and I have held meetings, updates, presentations, and asked for help repeatedly.  Yet despite all this, and lots and lots of hard work by me, and a handful of very dedicated others, it hasn't gotten better.  

I'm frustrated. I've heard lots of suggestions and ideas - most of them several times over - by many, many people. Yet, when these same people are specifically asked to *take action and get involved in implementing the ideas* there's silence. Most people want to suggest alternatives, many of which are impractical, and a scant few actually want to DO THINGS.  

I have been doing the lion's share of running BioCurious for over two years. I receive no financial compensation (in fact, it takes paid time away from my paying gigs). 

I have heard from several people that they would be more involved if other board members were more involved, doing more hands-on work, and/or if the accolades for the space were more evenly distributed. I don't have sole control over this, but I get that it's frustrating. It is for me too. 

Despite repeated and ongoing requests for specific help, I've received criticism for the fact we don't do better marketing, have more financial data prepared on a monthly basis, have a more complete and consistent class schedule, and many other things that are simply not feasible when it's just me trying to do the work.  I'm seeing lots of political maneuvering and divisive finger pointing at a time when we should be banding together to turn things around. It's sad, and it's shameful.

So - I'm stepping back from all of my day to day duties, and hoping that those who actually get things done will step up to fill in the gaps.  Here's a list of what responsibilities will be covered, and what will not:

·       *  Member/Volunteer Orientation - NO ONE (previously, Raymond and Mark Kent covered the safety portion) 

·        * Day-to-Day Finances – NO ONE

·        * Curriculum Development (lab and non lab) - NO ONE

·       *  Instructor Development (lab and non lab) - NO ONE

·        * Corporate Education - NO ONE

·        * Quick Books - Jason 

·        * Social Media (Facebook, Twitter) - NO ONE

·        * Volunteer Coordination – Jenney

·        * Marketing - NO ONE

·        * Newsletter - NO ONE

·        * Ordering & Restocking – Anitha

·        * Phone Call Coordination (responding to external call inquiries) - NO ONE

·        * External Email Information Requests - Raymond (needs an additional    person)

Raymond is still taking responsibility for several areas, including business development, safety, media, and lab architecture, but I know he has some of the same frustration that calls for help haven't been answered with action. If you're interested in those areas, contact him directly.I would like to see BioCurious succeed. If you want to take over an area listed above, contact me and I'll do a proper transition with you.  

We have a board meeting later this month to talk about the future of the space. I will be back to you with additional updates after that board meeting. If the future of BioCurious really matters to you – this is your chance to step up and take action.  

Until then,

Kristina