Executive Director's View

Working To Protect Our Future

by Heather Brown, CEM
CCBO Managing Director

April, 2010

The Annual Conference allows us to take time from our busy day-to-day operations and reflect.  It is a special way to network with old friends, meet new peers from around the country and exchange information with the only people who truly understand the challenges of our profession.  You will have an opportunity to expand your expertise in various areas with the more than 20 special educational sessions planned.  This is your chance to learn new ideas and soar!

CCBO Business Partners are already showing their enthusiasm and we expect a full exhibit hall.  We rely on our many Business Partners to inform us of the latest products, services, and new industry trends.  There is no better way to compare products and services, and to find novel solutions to seemingly insoluble problems than to come into the exhibit hall and network.

Many of us feel grounded by these difficult financial times.  Is it worth the expense?  We are keenly aware that our members want and need value for their professional development dollar.  Staying at The Westin Hilton Head, a superb hotel, with its terrific meals, beautiful rooms, and excellent resort services, is appealing but can you justify the cost?  The answer is yes!  Your conference fee provides strong professional development experiences, invaluable networking opportunities and many meals. 

The Programming Committee is working to provide a conference that offers many opportunities to you and real value for your community college.  We are being asked to do more on our campuses each year; the CCBO International Conference is your chance to learn how to do more with less.  When you finally return to campus, you will be better able to share with your staff and colleagues how to protect our future.

The CCBO National Office is here to make your visit to Hilton Head easy and pleasant.  Please contact us if you need more information.  I look forward to seeing you in November.  Email heather@ccbo.org.