IIMC Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri
‘I am writing this not long after returning from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) Annual Conference held in St Louis, Missouri, USA.
‘It was a different experience to any UK conference I have attended, starting with an all-singing, all-dancing opening ceremony. The flags of all US states and the overseas representatives were paraded in with national anthems playing. It was a great honour to fly the Union Jack whilst God Save the King played. The conference continued in this spirit and each session had full audience participation. The keynote speakers were very inspiring and were followed by a choice of workshops which were also of interest for non-US clerks attending. There was a big emphasis on social interaction as well as the learning element of the conference, with additional activities on offer for those who wanted to maximise their time.
‘I am writing a fuller article for The Clerk magazine so will keep this short, but it was a very worthwhile trip and I left with some new ideas for future conferences and events in the UK. I am very grateful to all at the IIMC for inviting me and giving me this great opportunity.’
Gina Lopes PSLCC, SLCC President
Photos from left to right: Attendance at Annual Banquet Region XI; Gina with Chris Shalby, IIMC and Dwayne Caines, Bermuda clerk; taking the oath of office, IIMC President; view of St. Louis.
