We're Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Newcomers
Welcome from co-chair Norman B. Rice
I'm Norman Rice, president and CEO of The Seattle Foundation. Like many of you, this is my first fall conference, and I'm looking forward to meeting everyone and participating in the special newcomer activities. Don't forget to introduce yourself to me and the other attendees in Charlotte and don't be afraid to ask questions about anything you see or hear. That's what conferences like this one are for: networking, learning—and, of course, making new friends.
Don't Miss These Programs:
Welcome Event for Conference Newcomers: "Welcome to Your First Fall Conference!"
Sunday, September 12, 3-6:30 p.m.
Bowling
Sunday, September 12, 3-5 p.m.
Strike City
Network with fellow newcomers and Council staff. Join us for food, drinks and a cutting-edge bowling experience. We will gather in the South College Street entrance of the convention center, and walk to Strike City together.
Please RSVP by September 8.
Newcomer Welcome Reception
Sunday, September 12, 5:30-6:30 p.m
Charlotte Convention Center, Room 217
Learn from experienced Council members and staff how to make the most of your conference experience. Get an overview of the conference structure, tips on how to navigate the conference and answers to your conference questions.
CEONet Retreat
New to the role of Executive Director or CEO? Come to this two-day preconference event and meet other CEOs, gain insights from their success, and get solutions to some of your questions! Connections are important and this event is a great place to start your new network. This is an ideal forum to discuss the issues you face daily and to build stronger ties with your peers.
Center for Community Foundation Excellence
Brand new to the field and looking for a way to shorten your learning curve? Go from zero to 60 in two days! Consider taking either the Community Foundation Fundamentals course (geared toward all new staff and board) or the Financial Administration for Community Foundations course if you are responsible for the foundation's finances. These preconference courses run over two days.
Learn more.
Top Five Tips for Those New to the Fall Conference:
- Introduce yourself. The community foundation world is a very social place and newcomers are most welcome!
- Share with your colleagues—it's the norm! The conference provides a number of venues from sessions and meals to networking receptions for you to learn about the work of others and tell them about your work.
- Connect with your professional group. Most major functional areas within a community foundation have a colleague organization: CommA, ProNet, CEONet, FAOG and AdNet.
- Enjoy yourself! Running from session to session can become overwhelming, so find some time each day to rest, go for a walk, or check out the local community.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions. Colleagues are happy to help and share their knowledge and Council staff members want to make your experience the very best. So don't be shy!
