Category: Board and Staff

For some women, becoming a mom is one of the most cherished events of their life. Some moms come into parenthood reluctantly or unexpectedly. No matter what the situation, it is a transformational event that leaves a lasting impact on the person.

As an international organization, the Board of Directors frequently looks at language so that we can do our best to do the right thing for all our families. This is an evolving area and there will be changes. I, myself, and our Board of Directors are committed to hearing how we can support and educate all birthing families.

Anyone who has worked in this field long enough has experienced and understands that pregnancy, birth, and parenting do not usually play out exactly as planned, and sometimes even end up completely unexpected or tragic. But even in these times where the reality is not the expectation, hope can come into its own, opening us up to creative possibilities.

ICEA is saddened by the growing violence against the Asian Community. Our hearts stand in solidarity with our Asian certified professionals, IATs, the families they serve, and anyone experiencing racial oppression and violence. 

I would like to remind you of the core values of ICEA: Collaboration, Compassion, and Choice. Let these values guide you as you work with families so that you offer them the support they need and the education to make decisions that will work for their family.

For ICEA, all of you are the heart of our organization. Your background, diversity, passion, compassion, and desire to teach and support are vital to us and the families we serve. Go forth in February with heart and compassion, helping to spread our mission.

As the new President of ICEA, I look forward to building on the successes of the past, making changes where needed to grow even more, and support all of our certified professionals so they can support their families.

We have had to face many challenges this past year, but your ingenuity and creativity have been nothing short of inspirational. Thank you for the work you do!

There is much room for improvement in the birth world, but please take time to appreciate the advances that have occurred. Progress may seem frustratingly slow, but we are moving forward. Education is essential for continued progress – and education is what ICEA is all about. 

What are your gifts? Would you like to be a part of making a difference on a national and international level? Our Board of Directors would love to hear from you. Email us with suggestions. Volunteer your time and energy. 

In response to a recent member survey, ICEA will be offering a series of webinars on the most requested topics including, teaching tips, maternal mental health, comfort measures, and diversity/inclusivity. You will hear from some who are experts in their field and from some of ICEA’s most experienced educators and doulas.

Thank you to everyone who applied for an ICEA scholarship during the most recent application period. We received so many incredible applications and are encouraged by your dedication to improving birth outcomes for all families.

We want the voices on our Board of Directors to represent all of our certified professionals. ICEA leadership needs your voice and unique perspective. Your expertise will benefit ICEA certified professionals, and your support will help them improve birth outcomes for all.

We don’t want to simply offer our words. We want to take concrete steps to advance diversity, inclusion, and equity. Though the board is in continued discussions regarding our efforts for change, we wanted to share the first three steps we’re taking to make this a reality.

ICEA’s vision of a nurtured world through professionals trained with these values requires persistent dedication. It is not enough to simply reiterate the words. We must continually demonstrate compassion.

In the wake of George Floyd’s tragic death, the ICEA Board of Directors and staff reaffirm our pledge to run an organization that has no tolerance for racism and seeks to support all families regardless of race, religion, color, creed, gender identity, sexual identity, national origin, or social class.

Midwives, nurses, doulas, and educators form a significant part of the circle of care that informs, supports, and cares for the family during the childbearing years. For some, ICEA certification is all that they need. For others, this training is a stepping stone to further education. We give our sincere appreciation to all who care for new families!

Your expertise has changed lives. The compassion you demonstrate to your families has improved birth outcomes for all. So, we’re inviting you to submit a nomination for the ICEA Board of Directors. Come share your knowledge and expertise.

In the midst of these many changes, my hope is that each of you is doing well. The work you do supporting new families is needed all the more in times of crisis. The education and encouragement you provide is priceless.

I don’t know if there is better preparation for a time like this than working in the birth world. We need to know the basics of labor and birth and at the same time be knowledgeable about the unexpected. We do not fearfully anticipate something going wrong, but we are prepared in case it does.

It is discouraging to think that we face the same battles that were fought almost fifty years ago. Rather than allow my frustration to build, I tried to think of solutions. The culture around birth must change… and not only must it change, but we must consider ways to sustain the changes.

How are you illustrating pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and postpartum to those you teach? Do you show your clients a range of emotion? Don’t forget that affective domain of learning. Capture their feelings. Grab hold of their hearts.