EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR UPDATE DFI Community’s Generosity and Support T here is no question that 2020 has been an “interesting” year already. It is difficult to discuss anything without mentioning COVID-19 and/or civil unrest as we are barraged by news stories, or personally touched by these situations. DFI has not been excluded from the difficulties posed by the pandemic, as reported by President Matthew Janes in his recent letter to the membership. We are also aware that it has not been easy for our membership to navigate the challenges the state of affairs has presented to them. The bright side is that DFI’s members have been understanding, generous and supportive — and we are incredibly grateful. Versatile DFI Offerings When it came to conference postpone- ments, transitioning some to virtual events, and making the tough decision to provide this publication in its digital format only for the remainder of the year, I am pleased to report that all were met with a willingness to stay committed to DFI. Most companies and individuals who had preregistered to attend postponed events agreed to attend on new dates instead. For the transition from an in-person to a virtual SuperPile, we had overwhelming support from the organizing committee in adjusting the technical program to work online; speakers and panelists agreed to present in a new and, in some cases, unfamiliar way; and exhibitors and sponsors embraced a different way of showcasing their brands, products and services to the virtual SuperPile attendees (while others chose to stay registered for the postponed St. Louis conference to occur in 2022). I am pleased to report that, in the end, SuperPile 2020 was a great success. Regarding the magazine, our adver- tisers have maintained their commitment, or in some cases upgraded to a larger-sized ad. So, I encourage you to read through their ads and visit their websites to find the best solution for your project needs. With adversity comes ingenuity, and therefore, while DFI will not print this issue and the two that follow, we have implemented additional means to distribute the digital publica- tion. Just as virtual options for attending conferences are likely here to stay even once we start gathering again, the additional visibility and distribution of the digital magazine will continue once we start printing and mailing again. Educational Trust Updates As summer begins, DFI staff and volunteers are usually bustling to prepare for our Educational Trust fundraisers: three golf outings in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and California, as well as our Gala Dinner in New York. There was hope that the golf outings, being primarily outdoor affairs, would be held as usual . But unfortu- nately, we have decided to cancel all three (Penn- sylvania in July at Mon- tour Heights Country Club, New Jersey in August at Royce Brook Golf Club, and Cali- fornia in September at Dublin Ranch Golf Course). A feeling of uncertainty remained about being able to maintain appropriate physical distancing during the post-golf banquets, a traditional time of camaraderie and networking. We are holding out on a decision for the Gala Dinner based on our ability to safely hold a relatively large gathering in a New York borough this November. Still, the Trust will be issuing scholar- ships to students who require assistance — maybe even more than usual during these uncertain times. Doing so allows students to Theresa Engler Executive Director [email protected] cont inue thei r pur sui t of Consider donating as you usually would when participating in [Trust] fundraisers so that scholarship funds continue to grow. education towards entering the deep foundations construction industry. To that end, I ask that you consider donating as you usually would when participating in the fundraisers so that scholarship funds continue to grow. This allows the Trust to fulfill its mission of supporting these students and connecting them with industry members. These students are your future employees and colleagues, and their interest and needs are great. For instance, we received over 80 applications that are currently under com- mittee review for the At-Large Scholarship program. Speci f ical ly, the Pittsburgh golf outing raises funds to distribute scholarships to students at the University of Pittsburgh, Penn State University and Carnegie Mellon. Even without the outing, donations can be made specifically to the scholarship fund of your choice via the Trust’s website at https://dfi2.org/trust/donate.asp. I hope we can count on you again to be as generous as possible and support the Educational Trust in the same way you have supported DFI during these chal- lenging times. Stay well and feel free to contact me if DFI can be of assistance to you and your company. Support is a two- way street, and we are always looking for ways to provide value in exchange for your generosity. DEEP FOUNDATIONS • JULY/AUG 2020 • 9
