Graduated!

WOW, I did it!! It has taken me 10 years to graduate a 4 year program. No, I wasn't held back for being the class clown. I started my first year while at the Sebastian Chamber in 1998, although I enjoyed learning the budget committee had other ideas. When I served at the Chamber in South Florida they didn't have a desire to invest in education opportunities for the President. However, Palm Bay is a completely different type of atmosphere. They gladly added the money to the budget for Staff Development. They recieved many returns on the investment. Did I say that we have received our 4 STAR Accredidation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce this past November, we did!

I have met some of the most wonderful people in the past 3 years, (remember, I started 10 years ago). My classmates are some of the most wonderful and giving individuals. To be in Chamber Life (as we call it) you must be a little crazy! If you are not in Chamber life, let me explain; not every day is the same and sometimes people walk in your office to talk and need help, next thing you know it is after 5:00 and your work is not complete so you stay until it is. You attend numerous council meetings, 50+ ribbon cuttings per year, every month you invite 150 or so of your best friends to lunch so that they can network, exchange leads, listen to great speakers and share ideas, and then you have Board, Committee and Staff meeting to throw in the mix all the while you are raising money for the next event.

The individuals that work for non-profits are truly amazing. One thing that is certain, you know everything about every situation. If there is an issue in the city, county or business you know about it. You hear about it from not just both sides but from all sides and sometimes more than once. However tired you may seem, you are energized as soon as you get to the next event, council meeting, ribbon cutting and luncheon and you are glad that you were invited. In the car, you have a small case which contains some of the following: however, for the guys I haven't a clue what you have in your case of fresh me ups!!! In mine, I carry a lip gloss, breathe mints, gum, face powder, a small bottle of bath & body favorites, and let's not forget my all time #1 staple Tylenol.

I have had the privilege of meeting some of the most inspirational individuals. There is the "Southern Gentleman" from Prattville, AL who is poised, groomed and so sophisticated that it makes the highly intelligent wonder who they are. You have the "Leading Lady" from Stuart, Fl, she is uniquely charming. She is one of the most organized and precise professionals as they come. Two of my best friends. I know that if they needed me, I would be there and I am certain it is the same on their end as well. Thank you for being my friends :)

But we did it! After 4 years of attending classes, sharing ideas, trying to change the professors mindset, laughing tons and having some of the best meals in Athens, Ga we are now certified with the IOM distinction from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. There are a few more initials that I want to work on to put after the IOM. I have already started the process for CCE and then I will try to attempt the CAE. It may not be college courses that I am working to gain, but I won't have student loans to pay back either.

Congratulations to all of my classmates. I truly am blessed to have met you and I am looking forward to continuing our education together. I will see all of you in Chicago!!

4C1 for a Reason!!!