WIIFM?

Joyce Doakes Smith, CPM
Joyce.Smith@opm.ok.gov

On several occasions, I have been asked the age old question: “WIIFM – What’s in it for me?”

I was always able to give an answer, but the other day I actually put it in writing. I am sharing it with you here. Our annual membership of $20 is one of the best bargains among professional organizations. I challenge you to compare our cost and benefits to any other organization in the country.

I love AACPM! The more you “give” to an organization, the more you benefit from it. After reading my list, it would not surprise me if you could add more items to the list. Here is the starting list of membership benefits:

• Charter state societies – the graduate chapters of the state programs
• Offer the Kenneth Henning Award – offer a travel supplement to the recipient, when necessary
• Offer the George Askew Awards – best practices in management – medallions and certificates
• Offer the Fran Wilkinson Scholarships – up to two annually
• Provide Fellow-to-Fellow networking opportunities for professional support
• Participate in the House of Delegates – annual business meeting
• The AACPM Connection – the official Academy newsletter
• An all-access website – www.cpmacademy.org
• National recognition for officer and committee service
• Committee work unites Fellows nationwide and helps set the direction of the Academy
• Provide grants to new societies, on request
• Mentor CPM-interest groups and new societies
• Share Society reports – information about what other Societies are accomplishing
• Provides proclamations (and sometimes speakers/presenters) for graduation ceremonies
• Foster relationships, provides professional support, and networking
• Mentor candidates, at their request
• Serve as CPM reviewers in National Certified Public Manager© Consortium reaccreditation reviews
• Liaisons represent the Academy on the Consortium
• Provide the annual conference – a professional development and educational experience
• Provide brand merchandise for purchase and promotion of CPM programs and Societies

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