NAPA’s Immediate Past President, Renee Scherzer, addressed attendees during the National Association of Plan Advisors' leadership transition at the organization’s 401(k) Summit in Nashville on Sunday.
Describing her time as NAPA president as a rollercoaster ride, she noted the “ups, downs, sideways, unexpected twist and turns, and then it was over before I knew it.”
“It’s been an exciting year,” Scherzer said. “When I began last April in San Diego, I had a lot of energy and curiosity, which was about all I wanted to accomplish. There were so many things I wanted to do, and I thought I had more than 24 hours in a day. But anyone who knows me and how I prepare for things, I became a student of the American Retirement Association and the fundamental mission of educating those working in the retirement plan industry and advocating for expanding retirement plan access.”
Acknowledging her family’s patience during her tenure, she said she met and collaborated with the American Retirement Association's (ARA) team, sister organizations, leadership council, committee chairs, friends, and family to learn how to personally make an impact.
“The one thing I value the most were the moments of profound connection with my dear friends, with many new friends, new fellow leaders, including our wonderful Leadership Council," Scherzer said. "So together, we navigated legislative storms. We’ve celebrated victories, worked together, aligned passions for our clients, peers, and industry to create a better future for all working Americans.”
Referencing her husband Chris and his battle with cancer, she said, “We’ve celebrated, supported, encouraged, and shown up for one another through unexpected challenges, gifts, and unfortunate loss. The work we do, and the people we are, not only touches the lives of the working Americans, but also one another’s.”
Going off-script, she mentioned the incredible number of gifts, cards, messages, and prayers she’s received before directly addressing her husband seated in the audience.
“How you navigated that storm was nothing but remarkable. I admire you for that. Everyone goes through challenges, but when people show up, it’s just so important that we are there for each other.”
She emphasized the need for women empowerment within the industry.
“As a mother of three, two of whom are teenage girls, I have always worked hard to lead by example …I was surprised in talking to some truly spectacular women who shared that no matter what level of success or position they attained, they still faced the subtle comments, unseen barriers, and unique challenges. It’s just not acceptable. I want to encourage the women here today to build your community, build your tribe, get involved in the ARA Thrive Mentorship program as a mentor or a mentee, and attend the Women in Retirement conference.”
She explained why volunteering for industry organizations like NAPA is so important and concluded with a call to action.
“If we want to continue this valuable work, we really must protect the industry through advocacy, and each of us giving our 100%—whether it’s our time, talents, treasures—with our participation,” Scherzer said. “You’re going to hear this over and over again because we need to all get involved. We all need to pay attention and show up.”
