What are your responsibilities and contributions with the Colorado Municipal Clerks Institute?
I serve as the Institute Director for the Colorado Municipal Clerks Institute. In this position I am responsible for coordinating and managing all of the education that municipal clerks need to do their jobs, and to achieve their certification as Certified Municipal Clerks or Master Municipal Clerks. This is critical as the role of municipal clerk is the only position in a municipality that is required by state law. Municipal Clerks are responsible for maintaining the records for the municipality, administering local elections, issuing liquor licenses and marijuana licenses, and so much more. They are the unsung heroes in our cities and towns. I was appointed to this position in 2009 as I was completing my service as Mayor of Northglenn, and it has been my pleasure serving these municipal clerks, and through them, the people of Colorado. The certification is given by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, and I love learning in this international environment.
What motivates you in serving in this role and how do you find it fulfilling and important for your professional development?
Having over 35 years of public service in my own city, I love local government and making a difference in my community. Working for the municipal clerks allows me to continue this service with a wider scope. I also love supporting these unsung, and often unrecognized public servants. As clerks need training in job specific knowledge, managerial skills, and leadership development, I am challenged to keep their curriculum innovative and relevant. This also helps me in my teaching here at Daniels. I have concrete experiences and examples to share with my students about what happens in organizations.