Meet the SDAS Board of Directors

As the old guard welcomes in the new members of the board, we thought it was a good time to put a quick bio of each of us out there so the general membership of SDAS can get a feel for who is representing them on the board.

Jim Hennum, President

I began studying astrology in 1988 and began practicing professionally in 1993. I love horary astrology and am fascinated by mundane astrology. I was lucky enough to write a syndicated monthly sun sign column which appeared in, among other places, Vision magazine. In a previous life (!) I worked for 9 years in the newspaper industry, at the San Diego Tribune and the Los Angeles Times. I served for 14 years off and on as Director of Publicity for SDAS, and Director of Publicity and Marketing for the California Institute for Open Studies (the former Cadent Cross Institute). A typical Sagittarius, there have been many other arrows I have shot and briefly followed in the work arena. I have my level 1 certification in Reiki and look to explore more modalities of energy healing including Burt Hellinger's Family Systems work with an astrological basis.

Deborah Parker, Vice President

I began my study of astrology more than 30 years ago and shortly thereafter began a 22 year journey into the mysteries of the Qabalah. I need those inner journeys to both ground and balance me as I do a lot of work in the outer world, currently in public policy. In my astrological practice I particularly like working with people who are stuck and overwhelmed, helping them see that their current state didn’t just drop out of the sky and actually has a pattern to it. I am a many times published poet and writer and am currently combining my love and knowledge of astrology and poetry into my first book. I also seem to have a knack for being able to interpret astrology at the instinctual level of animals and have a book developing on that, too. I previously served on the SDAS board as Vice President. I was surprised at how much I missed my service with SDAS and am very glad to be back.

Shirleen Murray , Treasurer

My interest in Astrology began as a shy teenager in the 1960’s when I discovered Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs.  Astrology came along at just the right time and thus began the long journey to better understand myself.  It was comforting to see myself between the pages of that book and to not feel so alone.  From this simple beginning, I began to read all sorts of Astrology books and learned a lot about archetypes and the traits of all the “signs”.  It wasn’t until the fall of 2001 before I began formally studying Astrology when I took classes taught by Keith Burke at The Cadent Cross.  Basically, my interest in Astrology is Psychological, so Keith was the “best” and “right” teacher for me; I’ve learned a great deal from him and will be ever thankful that he came into my life.  I’ve been a member of SDAS for about 7 years.  My first introduction to SDAS was when I met Jules & Jim at Rob Hands lecture.  I’m an avid reader and spend much of my time reading all sorts of books on many different topics and I especially like (fiction) mysteries.  You’ll also find me at most any kind of lecture or in any of the book stores in and around San Diego.   I also love to travel, especially to Europe.

Loda Shaw Jr., Publicity Director

Loda was co-founder along Judy Johns the Los Angeles-based 'Round Art' astrology group in 2001. He has been involved with the study and teaching of astrology for well over 30 years. Loda wrote extensively on sports and astrology that was regularly seen in the now defunct Aquarius magazine. He has lectured extensively on the Saturn & Jupiter cycle and how to use it practically in daily life. Loda lectured for the San Diego Astrological Society in 2009 and for numerous other astrological groups in the Southern California area since 2001.

Loda is a member of The American Federation of Astrologers (www.astrologers.com/) and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Phoenix. His practice includes reading the Natal birth chart using transits, progressions, directions and the Solar Return chart. Other techniques Loda employs for various clients are relocation astrology, along with the Composites and, Synastry charts for relationship issues.

While a student athlete at Ohio University, Loda became curious about the subject of astrology. A 'chance' meeting with a practicing astrologer in New York City during spring break took him from the curiosity stage to becoming a student in one fell swoop. That fascination with the stellar science has motivated Loda to teach, write, and grow an extensive astrological client list. He currently lives and practices his craft of astrology in Vista, California.

Joe Simpson, Librarian

I received my formal training in Astrology from local astrologer Terry Lamb. I have been a member of the SDAS Board Of Directors for ten years serving as Librarian, and recently served as SDAS President for three years. I do natal readings to facilitate self awareness, personal and spiritual growth. I do transit/progressed readings to facilitate self awareness and growth while in life transition. When I’m not involved with astrology, I enjoy nature, surfing, bicycling, creating art, and reading. I also operate a small house painting business

Francesca Smith, Newsletter Director-Editor

Let’s see...I was born and raised in NYC, and was a juvenile actor (not to be confused with juvenile delinquent.. Oh go ahead, confuse it.) I Was trained at Circle in the Square theatre, and am currently a member of the Actor’s Alliance. I got accepted at Juilliard but came out here for what I thought was a terribly good reason at the time (could see myself 40 years old and still living with mommy and daddy). Graduated from USIU’s performing arts school out here but didn't pursue acting at that time. I have been working in the Graphic Design/Marketing industry. I started studying astrology under Hugh Martin about 20 years ago maybe? That would be 20 years ago, BC (before computers). I am by no means as adept at it as I should be after all that time, but I do remain constantly amazed by its validation.

Kenneth Miller, Correspondence Secretary

When I am not scouring the deserts of Anza Borrego on my old mail pony looking for SDAS correspondence, I divide my time between my MA studies at Kepler College, professional astrological practice, and various other business interests. A student of astrology since a child, I am now a professional Indian (Vedic) astrologer and approved tutor. I have lectured to various Astrological groups in the southwest as well as appreared at last year's UAC. I am a member of the Council of Vedic Astrology, NCGR, ISAR, AFAN, and AFA. I am strongly commited to the support of professional astrology and the spread of astrological knowledge.

Jules Braden, Membership Director

I began my serious study of astrology in February 1998 with Terry Lamb and have continued my studies with other amazing teachers (Kevin Burke, Jim Shawvan, Lee Lehman, Keith Burk, Anne Massey – and, hopefully, Kenneth Miller) and awesome SDAS and UAC lecturers (too numerous to mention). I am a Usui Reiki Master/Teacher (lineage through Aria Walker) and have training in healing and mediumship through Harmony Grove Spiritualist Association (founded in 1896). I’ve worked for the City of Coronado for 23+ years, been a resident apartment manager for 17+ years, and started my own very small business, Tree of Wisdom, in 2004, offering metaphysical services. I’ve also been blessed to assist many individuals with my astrology skills, including successful collaborations with the Native American Community setting times for healing ceremonies using astrology. This is my second time on the SDAS Board and I’m looking forward to providing excellent membership service

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