When Benjamin DeClue, then assistant city administrator for Lebanon, Missouri, decided to take part in the Emerging Leaders Development Program, he was interested in furthering his network and gaining a national network of connections through ICMA. Now the city administrator for Glendale, Missouri, Ben shared his thoughts on taking part in the one-of-a-kind program.

ICMA: Why did you choose to apply to the Emerging Leaders Development Program? 

BD: I was interested in becoming more involved with ICMA at the start of my career and wanted to establish a national network of connections and friends that shared my passion for public service.

ICMA: What was your biggest takeaway from the program?

BD: My biggest takeaway from the program was that there are a multitude of attitudes and approaches to public administration- draw on the lessons of the past that you learn from others and from books/manuals but don’t be afraid to come up with your own solutions.  Be innovative!

ICMA: What was the coaching experience like? How did it benefit you?

BD: The coaching experience was incredible.  My mentor has been a tremendous resource to me in my career, offering advice on workplace issues, community issues, and career direction.  We still talk monthly to this day!

ICMA: In what ways have you taken what you learned from ELDP and incorporated it into your professional journey?

BD: I’ve been able to incorporate the advice from my mentor, as well as many of the stories related to our cohort by the various instructors, into the decisions I’ve made in my career.  This program without a doubt helped me to be a better Assistant to the City Administrator and now City Administrator!

ICMA: How did ELDP improve your knowledge on human capital management and workforce engagement? 

BD: ELDP was a great resource for HR management and workforce engagement issues.  The instructor was very personable and engaging and the ICMA guidebook is still on my bookshelf and used quite frequently.  As a young career professional, I hadn’t yet had to deal with many of the issues covered by this course topic.  As I progressed and encountered them, I was much better prepared to handle these situations as a result of my time in the program.

ICMA: How would you describe this program to those considering it? 

BD: This program is an excellent introductory experience into local government management.  You will make lifelong friends with some of your cohort and forge relationships with other professionals coaching and mentoring in the program that will serve you well in your career.  I still enjoy speaking to many of the people I met in ELDP when I attend ICMA and regularly keep in touch with program members I consider good friends to this day.

Get more information on the ICMA Emerging Leaders Development Program.

Topics

New, Reduced Membership Dues

A new, reduced dues rate is available for CAOs/ACAOs, along with additional discounts for those in smaller communities, has been implemented. Learn more and be sure to join or renew today!

LEARN MORE