Public service is the quiet work that keeps our democracy strong. Across every state, elected and appointed officials — and the staff who support them — step forward to solve prob­lems, bridge divides and uphold the trust placed in them by the people they serve. The Council of State Governments exists to support that work, connecting state officials across all branches of government to share ideas and build the rela­tionships that make good governance possible.

As we mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, CSG is proud to celebrate not only our nation’s founding ideals but the people who bring those ideals to life every day in state capitols and communities across the country. We honor the courage it takes to govern, the creativity to solve problems in new ways and the civility to engage across differences.

In my role, I have the privilege of witnessing the public servants who measure success not in headlines but in the lives improved by their decisions. Their example reminds me why government matters. It is their purpose and persistence that fuel the CSG mission and define its impact.

Our mission — to champion excellence in state government — remains constant, even as the issues that impact policymaking are evolving faster than ever. Artificial intelligence and emerg­ing technologies are reshaping governance, demanding new frameworks for ethics and data protection. Leaders are also continuing to navigate the complex intersection of federal and state responsibilities on issues like Medicaid, infrastructure and emergency response. But with support from CSG, state officials are meeting these challenges head-on by learning from one another and leading together.

That spirit of collaboration extends to the very structure of our organization. The CSG regional structure remains the heartbeat of our organization, where relationships are built and solutions take root. Through the CSG regions, members are examining policies that respond directly to the needs of their states, identifying best practices and strengthening connections.

At the national level, CSG programs extend that collaborative spirit even further. Whether through leadership development programs, interstate compacts, policy academies or federal advocacy, members continue to demonstrate that the strength of our states lies in our ability to learn from one another. These efforts form a network of trust and expertise that distinguishes CSG as the nation’s premier multibranch, nonpartisan organi­zation serving state officials.

That network is strongest when our members are engaged. I invite you to connect with CSG this year. Attend a regional meeting, participate in a policy academy, nominate a colleague for the Toll Fellowship, or simply reach out to learn more about how CSG can serve you.

To every member, partner and supporter reading this: thank you. Thank you for supporting the mission of CSG, for lending your voice to the national dialogue and for helping make this organization a trusted home for state officials. Your engage­ment ensures that CSG remains a catalyst for excellence in public service.

Because of the extraordinary leaders who serve within our membership, I am confident that our nation’s best days are ahead. I have great faith in the state officials who lead with purpose and integrity. Your work strengthens the nation in ways that rarely make headlines but always make a difference.