By Stephanie Weese, CFO, MSBO Board Member, Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services, Livingston ESA
At the leadership conference earlier this month, we focused a portion of our time together on the annual conference. Specifically, we were looking at the various topics that were submitted as ideas through the MSBO survey, and then narrowing down where the presentations would fit within the conference structure and who the presenter could be. As we worked through the task, I noticed that there were so many great topics submitted, but for many of the topics, the presenter field was left blank. As a final step, the groups worked on a list of possible presenters for the topics.
As I reflected on the task of recommending presenters, I thought about my earlier years in MSBO and what my perspective was on being a presenter at an MSBO event. I remember attending the various workshops and the annual conference and appreciating the knowledge of those members that were willing to step up and share their knowledge. The possibility of me being a presenter at any MSBO event seemed so far-fetched, and to be honest, made me very uncomfortable. I did not feel like I had anything that I could share of value, and felt that there were so many other MSBO members that had more knowledge and experience. For a while, I stayed in my comfort zone and watched others step up and share their knowledge.
I know that I am not the only one that has felt this way, but I also know that no matter where you are in your career you have something valuable to share. While I would not say that I enjoy presenting, I have learned to find joy in sharing my experiences with colleagues. And I can say that I am always overjoyed when my presentation is done!
If you are looking to grow as a leader, and create more connections with MSBO members across the state, you should sign up to present at a workshop or conference. We are all waiting to hear your voice and to learn from you.
Other Articles in this Newsletter
- Annual Conference Hotel Registrations Open December 1
- Celebrating MSBO Members Achievements
- Don’t Miss out on These Professional Development Opportunities
- MSBO Board Elections: Thinking of Running?
- MSBO Update – David Martell
- Piper and Stebbins Scholarships are an MSBO Tradition
- Take Your Leadership to the Next Level
- This Month with MSBO – Dena Mayer
- Welcome New Members