Monday, March 8, 2010

Melinda Shepard, vice president of the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce, has completed her third year at Institute for Organization Management (Institute), a four-year nonprofit leadership training program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their communities,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.” Since 1921, Institute has attracted association and chamber professionals from across the country to its five university sites. During the four years, most Institute participants attend the one-week sessions at the same site, building valuable relationships with others in the industry. Through a combination of required courses and electives, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively. “Institute provides the most comprehensive professional development available in our profession,” said Russell C. Salzman, IOM, CAE, CEO and Executive Vice President of the Institute for Real Estate Management and chairman of the Institute Board of Trustees. “The program allows attendees to share today’s best practices in an ever changing economic environment.” Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn points toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually. Institute is a 501(c) (3) affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities. Shepard is a native of Clarksville and has been with the Chamber for ten years. Founded in 1905, the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce represents over 1,000 member businesses that account for nearly 30,000 full-time employees working in start-up entrepreneurial ventures, small businesses, established professional service providers, and large manufacturers. The Chamber’s mission is to enhance the quality of living for Clarksville residents by promoting business and economic development, improving the community’s welfare, and representing the interests of its members. For more information, visit www.clarksvillechamber.com.

Last Modified: 2010-03-08 16:52:49