Idaho Certified Public Manager NEWS

Orlando, FL – The conference was attended by Debbie Woolery for the Idaho Society and Chuck Kinkead who was the Askew winner. The Askew award recognizes exceptional CPM projects that utilize management practices exemplifying the philosophy of the AACPM. Chuck’s project was titled Computerized Maintenance Management System. Reva Tisdale also attended as the Treasurer of the Academy.

Sunday afternoon Debbie attended New Attendees Orientation and the Presidents meeting. The Orientation meeting was an introduction of the conference process and discussion of what to expect. The Presidents meeting was a lively discussion of the value of belonging to a state society and the Academy. In tough economic times, people want clear value for their money. While networking and access to further education are valuable, Societies and the Academy need to develop tangible benefits for their membership.

Monday morning began with opening ceremonies and a keynote by Bob Kodzis from Flight of Ideas, Inc., a creative think-tank designed to help groups think out of the tank. www.flightofideas.net

Monday afternoon was filled with breakout sessions that included “Leadership for Embracing Change”, “Servant Leadership”, “Strategic Leadership for Public Managers”, and “Turn ‘Em on – Manage as a Coach”.

The highlights of the day on Tuesday were keynote speeches by John Pieno from the Florida Sterling Council and Don Yeager. Don discussed the Sixteen Consistent Characteristics of Greatness, which he developed through many years working as one of America’s most provocative journalists. That evening the annual Awards Banquet was held to recognize the Askew and Henning award winners and nominees.

Wednesday morning the House of Delegates met to vote on new officers for the American Academy and to conduct the business of the academy. New officers are President Elect: Jeff Kramer (AZ), Secretary: Debra Bourbeau (NH) and At-Large Member Affairs: Linda Jefferson (NC). Reports were reviewed and approved.

One of the special and fun events of each conference is the state basket raffle. All proceeds from the raffle go to the state society for the next year’s conference as seed money. Debbie Woolery prepared Idaho’s basket this year.

The conference is a great way to share ideas and to develop networks with managers in other states. In addition to the learning opportunities, we also make many new friends. Mark your calendars now for next year! The conference will be held October 17-19, 2010 in Oklahoma City, OK. You can visit the Academy’s website at www.cpmacademy.org.

Conferences:
2010 – Oklahoma City, OK
2011 – Salt Lake City, Utah
2012 – S. Carolina
2013 – Boise, Idaho

We are currently looking for volunteers for the 2013 conference being held in Boise! Check with any of your Board members for more information.

Submitted by Debbie Woolery