on January 1, 2025
Dear Members of the National Association of Naval Photography (NANP),
As my term as president comes to an end, I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all of you. Thank you for placing your trust in me over the years. It has been an incredible honor to serve this organization in various capacities—first as Second Vice President, then Vice President, and most recently as your President for the past three years.
Looking back, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together. One of the most significant achievements during my presidency was the development and ratification of new bylaws in 2022. This was a collaborative effort, led by Lifetime Director Tim Timmerman, that required patience, compromise, and dedication, and I’m thrilled that we were able to create a framework that serves us all well.
I also had the privilege of leading the association through a time of renewal as we reconnected after the COVID-19 lockdowns. Together, we enjoyed three fantastic reunions: San Antonio, Texas, in 2022; Washington, D.C., in 2023; and the unforgettable Navy Photographers Reunion Cruise to the Bahamas in 2024. These gatherings remind us of the bonds we share and the rich history of our profession.
As I step aside, I am excited to welcome Lisa Borges as our new President. Lisa is a trailblazer as the first retired Mass Communication Specialist (MC) and only the second woman to lead NANP. Her leadership marks a new chapter for our association, and I believe she will inspire the next generation of Navy photographers and Mass Communication Specialists to join and contribute to our community.
While I am no longer your President, I remain an active member of NANP. I will serve as Past President on the Board of Directors for the next two years, and I will continue as your Webmaster and, for now, the Newsletter Editor. (Though I am actively seeking a successor for the latter role!) My commitment to this association is steadfast, and I look forward to supporting Lisa and the board in any way I can.
As we look to the future, I encourage all of us to focus on fostering unity within our community. While our association is rooted in the traditions of Photographers Mates (PHs), we must embrace and welcome the Mass Communication Specialists (MCs), who face the ever-evolving challenges of modern photography with incredible skill and dedication. Together, we can bridge the generational and cultural gaps, ensuring NANP remains a vibrant and enduring community.
Thank you again for the privilege of serving as your President. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I look forward to continuing to work with you as we build on our legacy and pave the way for future generations.
Sincerely,
Wes Gibson
Past President, National Association of Naval Photography