Alan Kantor 2025 Executive Board Candidate

Photo by Nikki Metzler Photography

April Statement:

Dear Fellow Chess Enthusiasts,

I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Executive Board of US Chess, with a passion to further the game globally and address members’ concerns. With many years’ experience and service to US Chess in various roles, I am confident in my ability to serve our community.

I will explain my growth in the chess world and goals that I wish to accomplish in the next letter. My qualifications include starting at the local and state levels eventually working at the national level.

I am committed to working tirelessly to promote chess and serve our members. I would be honored to earn your vote and join the Executive Board to make a POSITIVE impact on our beloved game. Thank you for considering my candidacy!

Yours for chess,

Alan Kantor
Phone: (931) 200-9038 call or text
E-mail: Click here to show email address
Facebook: Alan Kantor for US Chess Executive Board

Note: the statement in its original formatting is available here

May Statement:

$Text Box:$

Dear Fellow Chess Enthusiasts:

As a passionate chess enthusiast and dedicated U.S. Chess Federation member, I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the U.S. Chess Executive Board. With a lifelong love for chess and decades of service, I am eager to contribute my experience and vision to help grow the game and serve our members.

With 50 years as a player and 30 years of dedicated service in various roles, I understand the challenges and opportunities facing our organization. My goals are to:

Expand membership at all levels, from scholastic to senior players.
Foster inclusivity and strengthen our chess community.
Enhance support for clubs, tournaments, and scholastic programs to inspire the next generation.

My Experience & Commitment:

Served in advertising, sales, scholastic programs, club development, membership, and editorial roles for US Chess.
Delegate and Editor for the New York State Chess Association and Empire Chess.
Delegate and President of the Tennessee Chess Association.
Senior Tournament Director, coach, teacher, and FIDE instructor.
Organized a weekly podcast honoring those who further the game.

I am committed to listening to your concerns, advocating for POSITIVE change, and promoting chess at every level. I would be honored to earn your vote and serve on the Executive Board.

Chess has the power to bring people together, foster critical thinking, and provide a platform for personal growth. As a board member, I will work tirelessly to promote chess in schools, community centers, and underserved areas. My vision is one of growth, inclusivity, and excellence. US Chess should provide world-class services while making the game accessible to all. I will listen to members’ concerns and be a strong advocate for our community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to serving US Chess and contributing to its future.

“Change for the POSITIVITY of chess.” ~ Alan Kantor, Candidate for US Chess Executive Board

"I enthusiastically endorse Alan Kantor for US Chess Executive Board.

Alan has been a force for American chess for decades, and I have gotten to know him better since 2021, when I moved to Tennessee. Here in my state, I have witnessed firsthand his passion for promoting the game at all levels. Alan believes that a positive attitude toward everything related to chess is the key for growing our sport and wants there to be fewer petty squabbles off the board. I also consider it important that Alan Kantor is an active tournament player. Just in the last month, he has played in both the Amateur Team East and Amateur Team South. After all, chess is about playing the game, and that gives Alan a frame of reference when working on big issues. I believe that Alan Kantor will be a strong addition to the US Chess Executive Board."

Grandmaster Alex Fishbein
Spring Hill, TN
March 2, 2025

June Statement:

Dear Fellow Chess Enthusiasts,

Why am I campaigning to be part of the US Chess Executive Board? As a dedicated member of the US Chess community, I'm running for the Executive Board because I genuinely care about the organization's future and want to address the concerns and criticisms that have been raised.

My campaign is built on POSITIVITY and TRANSPARENCY, with a focus on improving the organization for all members.

My Vision for US Chess

Throughout my time in the chess community, I've heard many critiques of the organization, and I take these concerns to heart. Instead of asking what US Chess can do for me, I'm asking what I can do for US Chess. My goal is to help make the organization better for all its members, not just a select few. As a membership-driven organization, I believe it's essential that we prioritize the needs and interests of our members.

Key Areas of Focus

To achieve my vision, I've identified four key areas of focus:

a) Enhancing Corporate Support—We've made progress in securing corporate sponsorships, but I believe there's room for growth. Internal conflicts and lawsuits have tarnished our image, deterring potential sponsors. I'd like to explore strategies with fellow board members to present a unified and positive front, making US Chess a more appealing partner for businesses and corporations.

b) Recognizing and Celebrating US Chess Clubs—With numerous chess clubs across the U.S., it's essential we acknowledge and appreciate their contributions. A potential initiative could be featuring a club each month on our website or in Chess Life magazine, fostering a sense of community and encouraging growth.

c) The Value of Print Magazines—While Chess Life and Chess Life Kids have faced criticism, their editors work tirelessly to cater to diverse interests. Although the print edition is currently not included with membership, I believe it's a vital component. Reconsidering the inclusion of print magazines with membership could enhance the overall member experience.

d) Growing and Retaining Membership—Boosting membership numbers across all age groups is crucial for our organization's success. We face challenges in retaining young adults and adults who may become less engaged as life gets busier. I aim to develop targeted strategies to attract and retain members, ensuring US Chess remains relevant and appealing to a diverse range of chess enthusiasts.

My Commitment to US Chess

I'm committed to serving US Chess and contributing to its future. As a dedicated member of the community, I'm passionate about driving growth and progress within the organization. By focusing on positivity, transparency, and member engagement, I believe we can build a stronger, more vibrant chess community for all.

Don’t forget: Eligible members must register to vote by 11:59:59 PM Central Time on June 1, 2025.

Alan Kantor
Candidate for US Chess Executive Board
Phone: (931) 200-9038 call or text
e-mail: Click here to show email address
Facebook: Alan Kantor for US Chess Executive Board