President's Messages

DECEMBER 2025 - MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

"The 12 Days of Supply Chain" (YouTube Link)

Hi everyone,

The other day, I was listening to my grandson practicing “The 12 Days of Christmas,” and I couldn’t help but laugh, because none of that could happen without a well-orchestrated supply chain! It reminded me just how much our profession quietly supports the magic of the season.

So, in the spirit of fun and appreciation, here’s what the 12 Days of Christmas might look like through our supply chain lens:

 12 Drummers Drumming – Thanks to global logistics and port operations that deliver every drum, stick, and sound system on time. Imagine trying to coordinate twelve drummers without logistics! From manufacturing the drums to ensuring the right sticks, skins, and sound systems arrive in perfect condition, this day relies on a flawless global supply chain. Ports, trucking networks, and distribution centers keep the rhythm going … literally.

11 Pipers Piping – Those pipers can only play because of skilled suppliers and precise production planning. From sourcing materials like brass, cork, and wood to meeting performance deadlines, our procurement teams make sure every note hits the right timing.

10 Lords-a-Leaping – Our leaping lords probably have high-performance apparel and footwear, all made possible through global sourcing, supplier quality control, and synchronized manufacturing. Whether it’s athletic wear or elegant costumes, it’s the product of collaboration across continents. Today, sustainability plays a starring role in that process, too. From responsibly sourced materials and eco-friendly fabrics to ethical labor practices and reduced carbon shipping methods, supply chains are finding innovative ways to keep performance high while minimizing environmental impact.

9 Ladies Dancing –From stage lighting and sound to costumes and choreography, the dance industry depends on supply chain coordination too. Event planners, freight carriers, and procurement specialists work behind the scenes to make every performance shine.

8 Maids-a-Milking – Now this one’s a classic example of cold-chain logistics. Dairy products require temperature-controlled transport, forecasting accuracy, and constant monitoring. Without resilient supply networks, those maids wouldn’t have a drop of milk to work with!

7 Swans-a-Swimming – These elegant swans remind us that sustainability is part of modern supply chains too. Responsible sourcing, environmental stewardship, and ethical trade practices ensure that industries, even those connected to nature and wildlife, operate with care and transparency. Today’s supply chain leaders embrace the Triple Bottom Line: balancing people, planet, and profit to create value that extends beyond the organization itself. It’s a reminder that true success means protecting ecosystems, supporting communities, and building businesses that can thrive responsibly for generations to come.

6 Geese-a-Laying – Agricultural supply chains are complex systems of forecasting, inventory control, and resource management. From feed and farming equipment to packaging and delivery, each egg represents a network of suppliers working in harmony. Managing perishable goods adds another layer of challenge.  Timing, temperature, and transportation must align perfectly to maintain quality and safety from farm to table. Accurate forecasting and coordinated logistics ensure that fresh products reach consumers quickly, minimizing waste and maximizing value across the supply chain. It’s a perfect example of how precision and partnership keep the food supply flowing.

5 Golden Rings – Behind every glittering ring is a story of global trade, from mining and refining precious metals to ensuring ethical labor and sustainable sourcing. Supply chains in the jewelry industry show us how transparency and traceability build consumer trust.

4 Calling Birds – Even our calling birds depend on supply chain excellence! Pet care and aviary industries rely on consistent production, safe packaging, and reliable transportation for feed, cages, and care products. Demand planning keeps every bird, and business, singing.

3 French Hens – Poultry operations demonstrate how forecasting, animal health management, and logistics intertwine. Every stage, from hatchery to household, is a balancing act of efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

2 Turtle Doves – Transporting live animals and specialty goods takes precision and compliance. Customs documentation, temperature control, and ethical trade practices ensure that every dove, or any shipment, arrives safely and responsibly.

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree – And finally, our partridge and its pear tree represent the beauty of agricultural and last-mile logistics combined. From orchard to marketplace, farmers, packagers, drivers, and delivery teams make sure holiday tables are filled. And that the spirit of giving reaches every home.

So, as you enjoy the holidays, take a moment to appreciate the invisible hands behind every product, package, and pear tree. Supply chain truly is the song behind the season.

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Board Member Spotlight

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Dolores Peña, our Vice President of Membership for the 2025–2026 term. Dolores is passionate about connecting people, ideas, and opportunities, both in her professional role and in her service to ASCM Houston. In her current position as Business Relationship Manager at NOV, Dolores connects business needs with technology strategies that help the company operate smarter and stronger worldwide. She partners across functions to align priorities, streamline processes, and drive meaningful change.

Previously, as a Global Materials Manager, Dolores led DDMRP implementations that right-sized inventory across multiple sites, improving efficiency, boosting inventory turns, and reducing operational risk. Her expertise bridges the worlds of business strategy, technology, and supply chain performance.

Within ASCM Houston, Dolores is not only a champion for member engagement but also an advocate for inclusion and professional development. She actively supports the Women in Supply Chain Committee, helping to create spaces where professionals can connect, learn, and grow together.

Dolores states that she  loves volunteering with ASCM and the Women in Supply Chain Committee because it allows her to help others feel included, supported, and confident as they grow. “Whether someone is learning something new or refining their skills, I enjoy creating spaces where people can thrive!”

We’re grateful for Dolores’s leadership, vision, and commitment to building a strong, inclusive supply chain community across Houston and beyond.

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Wishing you all a joyful, restful, and well-deserved holiday break,
Tammy Giesler-Hagans
President, ASCM Houston Chapter