“Storms make trees take deeper roots” ~Dolly Parton

The President’s Award recognizes a NAPO member who has made a significant contribution benefitting the NAPO membership.

More than 20 years ago, Susie Hayman launched her company In Your Business Professional Organizing Services with a passion to help clients grow their potential and become more productive and successful. Little did she know that her dedication to supporting people and helping them move ahead—even in difficult circumstances—would be put into everyday action as the worldwide pandemic became a reality during her NAPO presidency (2019-2021). Among her many achievements as President, it was her unwavering spirit and positive attitude that helped keep NAPO members focused on the organization’s goals and principles throughout one of the most trying periods in recent history.

“The pandemic gave the board new challenges and unexpected decisions we never thought we would have to make. We all looked to Susie for her leadership and wisdom. She has given so much time and love to NAPO, and for that, I’m honored to present her with the 2022 President’s Award,” said Amy Tokos, CPO^®, NAPO President at NAPO’s 2022 Annual Conference.

Susie has always put an emphasis on the value of NAPO, which embodies the importance of each member, how they help and support each other, and what that represents to others. She has consistently stressed mentorship, volunteerism, and the connection NAPO offers to its members. 

As Susie said at Conference, “Three years ago, I stood before you in Fort Worth, Texas, and asked that you celebrate with me—the value of NAPO, the value of us, AND the value we, as NAPO members, bring to others. You embraced the theme then, and you continue to embrace it now. Because of that, NAPO is here today and will continue to be here tomorrow. I believe we are an even stronger association now, and our members represent the best of our ever-changing and growing profession.”

As President, Susie was not only a great leader, but she was also a tremendous cheerleader. She stood as an example of leaning on the human connection of NAPO’s members to prop each other up and move ahead. She continually emphasized that the strength of NAPO is in its impressive and supportive membership.

“Yes, my two-year term as your President was unique, unusual, and unpredictable, largely due to a pandemic that disrupted the world and NAPO. However, my one constant was that I never felt alone. There was always the support of someone—the board, the HQ team, and all of you. Despite canceling our conference and shifting all our national and local events and meetings to a virtual format, NAPO kept going and thriving. We were united in spirit and capitalized on our connections and our relationships. We all came together and emanated to get things done; we just did them differently.”

We recently asked Susie a few questions and were pleased to also hear from her circle of friends.

Q: The “value” of NAPO was your theme during your presidency. Tell us more about why you chose that theme and what that means for our membership and the future of NAPO. I chose that theme because I believe value is what keeps us strong and connected through our mission, our work with clients, and our relationships with each other. During the pandemic, I found solace in knowing that we are all so tightly connected through NAPO. Our connections are key to our success as professionals and as an association. I strongly feel that the dedication and hard work of our membership helps each of us grow and get continually better at everything we do. These “values” ultimately benefit our clients whose lives we are helping to improve.

“When I think of Susie, I think of her as a perfect collaborative partner—always thoughtful, always thorough, and always keeping what’s best for NAPO top of mind. She’s also very fun to work with and be with. Volunteering with Susie never feels like a chore; it is stimulating, challenging, and interesting.” ~Ellen Faye, PCC, CPLC, CPO^®

Q. What was your greatest board service challenge?

Without a doubt, COVID. Having to cancel a NAPO Conference for the first time was both a challenge and a game changer. It impacted every decision in some way, shape, or form. On the positive side, we capitalized on our connections and our relationships.

“Susie Hayman is dedicated to the success of NAPO members and our industry. Through the difficulties of COVID, Susie wanted to be sure our members were supported personally and professionally. Members had access to free courses to help pivot their businesses and enhance their success. Our members felt that support and were empowered by it. Susie knows the importance and value of the relationships between us as NAPO members and has always been grateful for these national and international connections. Thank you, Susie, for all you have done for NAPO and our industry!” ~Ellen Delap, CPO^®

Q. What would be your most gratifying NAPO experience and why?

Serving as CRC Chair has to be one of the best as it prepared me so well for board service. Of course, serving as NAPO President was also a special time in which I felt united in spirit with our members.

“My NAPO national volunteer experience started with the CRC, under the direction of Susie Hayman. She was the perfect person to guide me through my valuable experience as a volunteer. Susie always had an answer to any question and offered support with any issue. I truly believe that NAPO is run by leaders with huge hearts and Susie is a clear example of this. She has given so much time and attention to the organization which we all have benefited from. Susie Hayman is truly deserving of the President’s Award.” ~Janet Schiesl, CPO^®

Q. What difference do you believe you have made in NAPO?

I feel my greatest impact has been in mentoring and developing other volunteers and watching them succeed. I’ve tried to instill in others how important those relationships are and how everyone has their own idea of what success is to them.

“Years ago, at a NAPO Conference, I recall Susie pulling me aside to discuss volunteer leadership roles. I’d venture to say that many people have stepped up to get involved and volunteer due to Susie’s winning smile and effervescent personality. How fitting it then was that while serving as ICD^® President, Susie was NAPO President, and we could connect as Affiliates. Susie is a bright light within NAPO. I treasure her and know that the President’s Award reflects that many within NAPO treasure her, too.” ~Cindy Sullivan, CPO^®

Q: Why do you do what you do? What inspires you? When do you get most excited?

I’m most excited when I see someone, whom I’ve mentored and developed, be successful. Many current board members are volunteers “I knew when.”

“Susie and I met when we were both Chapter Presidents. We bonded during our time as members of the Small Business SIG, but what really solidified our relationship was when we worked on the CRC together. Susie imparted so much wisdom; she warmly shared her skills and provided me with insight and guidance. She has tremendous patience, tenacity of purpose, and outstanding leadership qualities. Susie literally took me by the hand and taught me the ins and outs of NAPO. As Susie groomed me to climb the NAPO leadership ladder, she provided me a strong foundation and knowledge base about NAPO and our industry. She offered reassurance and encouraged me to take on more responsibility. If it weren’t for Susie’s gentle pushing and an occasional shove, I would never have had the confidence to run for the National Board of Directors.” ~Nadine Levy

Q. You are a lifelong volunteer who is constantly giving back. What are you currently working on for NAPO?

I’m currently serving on the Nominating/Leadership Development Committee and the Board’s Chapter initiative.

“I have had the honor of working closely with Susie throughout the lifespan of the NAPO Richmond Chapter, as well as on the NAPO Board of Directors. Susie is deeply devoted to NAPO and its members. She has a knack for bringing people together and making them feel special—whether they are chapter leaders, conference attendees, board volunteers, or NAPO’s staff. There are many of us who can attest that Susie had a hand in our success and involvement with NAPO. Beyond those of us who have worked directly with her, Susie’s heart-forward leadership style has earned her many devoted fans across the association! Our volunteer leaders have always counted on Susie to offer a wise and level-headed perspective, as she is a walking encyclopedia of NAPO’s history and policies. She’s always been one of NAPO’s secret weapons. We are all lucky to have Susie acting as a consistent champion for NAPO and our organizing profession.” ~Mindy Godding, CPO^®, NAPO President-Elect

NAPO will always be grateful to Susie for holding us together, moving ahead, and improving the organization despite all odds. Susie did, indeed, make our roots stronger during the storm!

About the Interviewer: Cary Prince, CPO® is a member of NAPO’s Awards and Recognition Committee. She is the owner of Cary Prince Organizing, LLC in Santa Monica, CA and has been a NAPO Member since 2014.