Greetings,

As the Skills Symposium draws near, I'm excited to extend a warm invitation to join us from June 24th to 28th in the vibrant Twin Cities of St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Skills Symposium holds a special place in my heart. It was during the Foundations Training at the March 2020 Symposium that I embarked on a transformative journey. Little did I know then that this week would coincide with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, forever etching itself in my memory. As we navigated those uncertain times together, forging connections that transcended mere professional engagements, I witnessed the seeds of leadership being sown among us. Many of those present have since stepped into roles of chapter leadership, assumed positions on the IAP2 Board, or continued to champion participatory practices throughout the nation.

Though much has evolved since that pivotal moment, the spirit of camaraderie and connection remains steadfast. Thanks to the unwavering support of the IAP2 community, these connections have not only endured but have thrived and expanded.

The Skills Symposium offers a unique opportunity to deepen bonds within our professional network. Its structured format enables participants to tailor their experience by selecting from a diverse range of training sessions, each designed to address specific interests and skill sets. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just embarking on your public participation journey, there's something for everyone.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Midwest Chapter and our partners at MnDOT for their invaluable contributions in bringing this event to fruition and providing enriching opportunities for our members.

Looking forward to coming together once again to learn, grow, and forge new connections at the Skills Symposium.

Warm regards,

Erin Zimmermann, 

Executive Director

IAP2 USA