Thank you to the many SGAC members who helped provide content, moderated, engaged and encouraged others to engage at the Convene, Connect & Collaborate! SGAC members engaged during five deep-dive sessions and a virtual happy hour at no cost. If you attended and would like to review session content or you missed out last week, we have on-demand links to many of the sessions available at request.
"This virtual conference provided bite-sized professional development in this COVID environment of no travel. The conference featured several incredibly engaging speakers with new and valuable content that I began implementing immediately."
Sandra Westerman Associate Director, Policy & Government Relations Alkermes, Inc.
Deep-Dive Sessions from Convene Connect & Collaborate
Legislative Process in the Time of COVID-19
How do you navigate your job in the face of closed capitol buildings, remote working or furloughed members or staff, daily changes in your client's needs and legislative priorities, and an ongoing health emergency? By examining the work of SGA professionals & legislatures who have been confronting these challenges, you can recognize successful common operating concepts and create checklists of new tools to consider adding to your toolbox at each stage of this new legislative landscape.
Thank you to our presenter Chris Greisel, Former Parliamentarian, Texas House of Representatives. Read speaker introductions here.
"Last week, I attended SGAC's First-Ever Virtual Summit - it was great! Three days of awesome speakers, timely and relevant content, and opportunities to connect with old friends (and make new ones) - SGAC definitely knows how to adjust with the current times - looking forward to more good stuff!"
Gamble L. Hayden Coordinator, Federal Compliance Services State and Federal Communications, Inc.
Drinking from the Fire Hose: Prioritizing the Data
During the typical legislative session, have you felt like you are drowning with all the bills that come out of the state capitals? When legislative activity speeds up to address this crisis, will you be ready? Three state government affairs leaders share their strategy and insights.
Thank you to our presenters Dr. Carol Stewart, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs of Purpose Financial, Jenn Stowe, Vice President, Government Relations of The Carpet and Rug Institute, and Joseph Testa Vice President, Global Government Affairs of American Express. Thank you to SGAC Education & Training Committee Member Darren Reamon, Director, Government Affairs, CEDIA, for moderating this session. Read speaker introductions here.
"Thank you SGAC! The content you created and delivered for the Convene Connect and Collaborate Virtual Conference was second to none. The engaging speakers on timely topics during these unprecedented times, provided valuable expertise and education for state government affairs professionals. I'm already looking forward to SGAC's next Virtual Conference!
Katrina Iserman Director, State Government Relations and Public Affairs Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.
How to Have Message Discipline When the Media Comes Calling
When the media comes calling and you feel the pressure, how do you remain patient? Message discipline is the art of communicating what you set out to communicate, clearly, memorably and consistently. Explore the tools necessary to stay on task and have the discipline necessary for your message to be on point!
Thank you to Board Director Eric Schuller, Director, Government and Community Affairs, Oasis Financial, for moderating this session and our presenter Rob Johnson, President of RJ47. Read speaker introductions here.
Nonverbal Communication Skills that Build Trust and Emotional Well-Being During Social Distancing Conditions
Since our body language is the most crucial and trusted part of our personality, it can specifically be used to readily build trust and a sense of well-being during social distancing conditions and virtual conversations. Learn how to use appropriate and deliberate nonverbal communication as a key tool to reconnect with people.
"Jan Hargrave was a fascinating speaker. In our profession communication is paramount and understanding that body language plays such a key role in that process was incredibly insightful."
Josh Young Senior Director, Government Affairs American Chemistry Council
Importance of Workplace Equity and Culture
The best workplace culture wins in every industry. Explore the impacts of an inclusive workplace through discussion on what it really means, why it matters, and how to get there.
Thank you to our presenter Emily Dickens, Chief of Staff and Head of Government Affairs, Society for Human Resource Management. Read speaker introductions here.
"The resources from this event were really tailored to the COVID-19 challenges I'm facing with my organization. As always, SGAC's speakers and educational sessions are top notch!"
Kati Siconolfi Director, State and Local Government Affairs AAHOA
