COA
ORG
Conchologists of America is an international organization for
anyone with an interest in shells and mollusks -- an interest
which may include study and collecting of shells as well as
their conservation. COA is governed and operated by a group
of volunteers, both elected and appointed. Government and organizational
matters are handled primarily at the annual meeting and at another
Board of Directors meeting during the year.
Activities and projects focus on several main areas. The Annual
Convention and the quarterly journal, American Conchologist,
are directed toward education about mollusks and enrichment
of the hobby. A Grants to Malacology Program helps fund molluscan
research. A Club Representative Program endeavors to assist
shell clubs in any way it can and to foster interclub communication.
A COA Trophy is provided to foster excellence in shell exhibiting.
The Listserv, Conch-L, and now Conch-Net join American Conchologist
in communication, conservation and enrichment. These spheres
of interest are outlined in COA's official statement of purpose:
The purposes of this organization
are to disseminate knowledge about mollusks, to encourage research
on mollusks and to increase the awareness of the need for preserving
habitats and the health of molluscan populations, through meetings,
lectures, publications, grants and exhibits.
(Article
II, Paragraph A of the Constitution of the Conchologists of
America last amended 6/27/95)
COA board members for 2004-2005:
President: Henry W.
Chaney
Vice President: Alice Monroe
Treasurer: Steven Coker
Secretary: Bobbi Cordy
Membership: Doris Underwood
Editor: Tom Eichhorst
Publications Director: John Jacobs
Trophy Chairman: Donald Dan
Trustee: Carole P. Marshall
Educational Grants Director: Jose Leal
Property Director: Hank Foglino
Historian: Mary Ruth Foglino
Finance Director: Helen Kwait
Public Relations: Jose Coltro
Past President: Tom Grace
