Forget the Buzzwords — This is What Leadership Looks Like
As you consider your vote for the next NCRA Vice President, I want to share a chapter of my leadership journey that shaped not only my commitment to this profession but also my readiness to continue to serve on a national level.
From 2016 to 2018, I had the honor of serving as President of the Virginia Court Reporters Association (VCRA). In that role, I worked closely with our Executive Director to uphold the integrity of our operations and ensure that our procedures reflected professionalism and purpose. Together, we focused on driving results, not just ideas.
One of the highlights of my term was leading the planning and execution of the VCRA’s Golden Jubilee Convention in 2017—a celebration of 50 years of excellence, and a testament to what we can accomplish when we honor our roots while embracing change.
But my proudest achievement? Leading VCRA’s Task Force that helped pass Virginia’s Anti-Third-Party Contracting law—a major legislative victory that now stands as Virginia Code § 17.1-1002. That success wasn’t about headlines. It was about defending the core of our profession and protecting the integrity of the record. It’s the kind of advocacy and follow-through I bring to NCRA.
Under my leadership, VCRA streamlined its policies, grew its membership, strengthened legislative influence, and launched the first Distinguished Service Award to recognize and celebrate service within our field. Even as Immediate Past President, I remained committed to shaping a leadership culture that was collaborative, future-focused, and strong enough to last.
NCRA is facing real challenges—lawsuits, bylaw changes, proposed dues adjustments. This isn’t the time for untested leadership. We need someone who’s been in the trenches—who understands governance, advocacy, and, above all, the vital role every member plays in shaping the future of this association. That’s the perspective I bring to the table.
I’ve led. I’ve delivered. And I’m ready to do it again—this time, for all of us.
Thanks for taking the time to read my message!
Respectfully Yours,
Carol L. Naughton, RDR
NCRA Vice President candidate – 2025-2026