Funny, inspiring, and in some cases, unbelievable. Many women who have worked in the male-dominated field of local government management have great stories to tell about their experiences over the years, and two ICMA members felt strongly that it was time to share them.

Democracy at the Doorstep, Too is a book project spearheaded by the partnership of ICMA members Mike Conduff and Melissa Byrne Vossmer. A number of ICMA women members have already contributed, and Mike and Melissa invite you to share your story of a challenge you overcame; a young woman you mentored; or a difference you made in your community by June 1, 2012. All net proceeds from the sale of the book will be contributed to the Life, Well Run campaign.

Melissa and Mike share a proactive passion for local government excellence. Mike is a 30-year local government veteran who is now well-established in his encore career. He is the author of multiple books and is widely considered an expert on governance and group process. He served as the president of the Kansas City/County Management Association and the Texas City Management Association as well as on the ICMA Executive Board. He is an ICMA Credentialed Manager who has served as an ICMA senior advisor since 2010 and contributed to many ICMA committees over the years.

"ICMA has been the single most important organization in my professional life,” says Mike. “Not only have I obtained critical practical training, but I have been able to network with the most influential thinkers and practitioners of our time. To be able to observe and interact with the best and brightest in our business has been significant for my career. Capturing their stories for others to learn from is my gift back."

Like Mike, Melissa has also served the local government profession for more than 30 years, led the Texas City Management Association as its president, and is too an ICMA Credentialed Manager. Melissa has also contributed her time and talent to numerous ICMA committees and initiatives over the years, including serving on the ICMA Executive Board.

"For the past 30 years, ICMA has provided a path to seek out new and creative ideas; helped me to obtain information on critical issues; caused me to pause and consider the opinions voiced; and provided a network of support and education that few other professions can boast or match,” says Melissa. “ICMA is a basic part of who we are as professionals.  Democracy at the Doorstep, Too is a sharing of experiences by women professionals - a sharing that provides insight into the life of women in the profession and that also provides an opportunity to continue to share valuable lessons learned." 

The book is designed to celebrate women in local government by capturing their stories of lessons learned and experiences gained over the years. You may be familiar with Democracy at the Doorstep – True Stories from the Green Berets of Public Administrators, which was published by Conduff in 2011. As that book does not include stories from women in the profession, the Democracy at the Doorstep, Too book project was born.

Interested? Share your intent to contribute your story with Melissa Byrne Vossmer at mbvossmer@earthlink.net or 979-922-9269; or Mike Conduff at mike.conduff@theelimgroup.com or 940-382-3945.