Reflection 2 - Conference Summary

From: Aisha Ruther
Email: Aisha_Ruther@ymcachgo.org
Date: May 23, 2008

Comments

This was my first Leadership Connections conference. I say "first" because I intend to go to conferences in the future. I had a great time! It was wonderful to get away, but also meeting and conversing with other professionals in the field. It was good to find out that my issues and concerns are not specific to my site, my agency, or even my city. It was nice to be able to come together and share suggestions, ideas, and solutions.

I appreciated all of the information that was presented to me. Nothing was taken for granted. I was able to gain insight on what to look for when hiring to help improve staff retention. We discussed the differences between "leadership" and "management," and acknowledged that both are needed to be a good Site Director.

I feel better equipped to achieve the level of success I desire. I am confident that taking steps to get closer to levels of excellence is more realistic than jumping to 100%.

And of course, the Close-out Luncheon brought tears to my eyes. I knew as a child that "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" was one of the better shows on TV for children, but I had no idea he was such an advocate for Early Childhood Education. I was really impressed and touched.

And I will remember that "people will remember those who were nice to them."