Editor’s note: John R. Regan, who has directed AIM’s government advocacy for the past 18 years, today becomes the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the largest business association in the commonwealth. Regan outlined a vision for the future of the organization during brief remarks to the AIM Annual Meeting Friday.

As the Roman philosopher Seneca observed “Omni fine initium novum” or, “Every new beginning comes from the end of another.”

As AIM prepares to write a new and exciting chapter in its distinguished history, I am reminded at every moment of the wisdom, generosity and quiet determination with which my predecessor Rick Lord has paved the road before me.

Rick never lost sight of where he came from and he never forgot that trust and respect are the ultimate currency of public policy and service.

Please join me – in again acknowledging Rick for all he has done for the Massachusetts economy.

Conscious of the fact that you have patiently listened to a full menu of speeches already, I would beg your indulgence to offer three brief observations.

First, to the members of AIM and especially to the Board of Directors, I gratefully accept your commission to lead this organization – supporting the dreams and aspirations of Massachusetts employers. We must keep as our guiding principal the fact that economic growth remains the only effective method of achieving the social equity that makes our commonwealth a great place to live and work.

Second, there has never been a more pressing need for businesses to work together with the sort of common purpose that drove 28 visionary companies to create Associated Industries of Massachusetts 104 years ago.

And third, meeting here in the Seaport district underscores the fact that we face an entirely new set of issues and challenges brought about by the breathtaking pace of change driving our economy.

The founders of AIM would no doubt be amazed to discover their association in 2019 wrestling with issues such as the rules governing ride-hailing apps, the appropriate use of drones, or how to integrate the autonomous vehicles driving around outside the building today.

You know, one can almost see the Seaport District from where I grew up in Dorchester. But in economic terms, it’s a different world and a different century being driven by a new generation of entrepreneurs.

AIM welcomes all employers and dedicates itself to serving the needs of the full range of Massachusetts companies working to provide the hope of a better life to our friends and neighbors.

We remain committed to the principals of diversity, equity and inclusion – on our board, on our staff, and throughout our membership. We assert unequivocally that AIM will be an association in the truest sense of the word, providing an opportunity for everyone ” especially those who have historically been ignored ” a full voice.

Everything we do at AIM is done to help businesses unlock their full potential. We fiercely advocate for positive public policy that helps to create a strong economy.

We empower businesses with the information, tools and resources needed to successfully navigate a fast-paced, complex business world. We foster connections, networks, and the flow of ideas between people and businesses.

We believe that business can be a positive force for change in helping to create a better, more prosperous society. And the best part is, we’re just getting started.