PD IV Transfers the
Knowledge…Big Time… - 2005
By: Sandra Parker/CMC, City Clerk, City of
Woodinville
It was almost here… The long waited
start of the NCI Professional Development IV class – the first of its kind
in the United States. What to pack, who will be your roommates, who will be
in class, and wondering if the instructors would be able to relate to us
Clerks—those were the questions in most everyone’s mind as the day
approached. Everyone was so looking forward to rekindling old acquaintances
and meeting new colleagues, some of which were former PD buddies from I, II
& III. The states of Washington, Oregon, Alaska, and California were
represented at UPS during the three days in June, along with NCI Director
Dema Harris.
Peter and Susan Glaser, both PhD’s, were
warmly welcomed in presenting their Mastery of Leadership Communication
class. The way they interacted with each other was definitely entertaining
and boy, did they know their stuff! It was interesting to learn a little
about their private lives through some of the exercises in the class. We
learned group facilitation skills, how to respond to criticism positively,
and the power of persuasion and influence. Raising delicate issues and
collaborative problem solving were taught in both group and individual
sessions. Real life situations were explored as well as past experiences.
Director Dema seemed to be there 24/7.
Early in the morning and into the evening – there she was doing what she
does best – being our Director. Dema – it was a milestone experience for
all who attended. Thank you.
We all shared many laughs – mostly at
ourselves. We learned lots of tips and techniques that are just too many to
tell you about in this news article. I guess you will just have to
experience PD IV yourself! Is there $$$ in your budget so you can attend
next year? Ever thought about applying for a WMCA scholarship?
That’s how I got to go to PD, you know.
I applied for one and was lucky enough to be a recipient, which helped me so
I could attend classes. Because of PD IV, I was able to get enough points
so that I can now apply for my last and final level of my MMC and I am
working on it now. Thanks, WMCA!
