Hello! I am the Chair of the Welcome Ambassadors Committee.  I am excited to welcome you to your first ICMA Conference in Charlotte/Mecklenburg County.  I’ve personally been a member of ICMA since I was a student in 1996 and this will be a return to Charlotte/Mecklenburg for me. 

Take full advantage of your first ICMA Conference.  Try not to miss the keynote speakers, which always leave me feeling energized and renewed.  Take the opportunity to network with colleagues in the exhibit hall and throughout the convention center during breaks from the educational sessions.   Don’t overlook the roundtable sessions, some of the best tips and connections can be made in those more informal sessions.

I also recommend that you take the time to enjoy the City and surrounding areas, even if that is just a lunch outside the convention center or an evening activity.  Over the years, I’ve felt it important to use the conference as an opportunity to develop professionally, yet also recharge a bit.

I sincerely hope you enjoy your first ICMA Conference and I know it will leave you looking forward to next year’s conference!