REMEMBERING JOE RICCI

As you know, earlier this month, PASAE lost one of our association community’s pillars – Joseph Ricci, Esq. Joe switched careers to association management in 2017 after serving as an attorney for most of his life, but he made more contributions to the association management profession in those five years than many do in a lifetime. He joined the PASAE Board of Directors within a year of becoming a member, facilitated the CEO Roundtable discussions, obtained his CAE certification and then began serving as a trainer for future test takers. At the time of his passing, Joe was serving as PASAE’s Vice Chair in line to become Chair in just a few months. He was always willing to roll up his sleeves and get involved.

Many of us also considered Joe a personal friend. He was always generous with his time and his extensive knowledge, willing to serve as a sounding board and usually volunteering to help wherever he could. He always had time for a chat regardless of how busy he was, and his love for his family would shine through as he shared the tales (or photos!) of his latest adventure with his wife, Jennifer. Joe was well known within PASAE for his brilliant mind, his open heart, and his kind spirit.

His loss has hit us all in unimaginable ways. Many of you have shared your thoughts and ideas for how we continue Joe’s work and honor his legacy. Once plans for a memorial tribute are finalized, we will share with you.

Click here to view Joe’s obituary.

Thank you for being there for Joe and one another during this difficult time. Please continue to keep Joe’s loved ones, including his loving wife Jennifer, in your thoughts and your prayers. We also send our heartfelt condolences to his team at the Pennsylvania Optometric Association.

- Johanna Byrd, PASAE Chair