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Master Academy for Civic & Public Affairs

Master Complex Duties

An advanced continuing education program. 

Master Academy for Civic and Public Affairs is one two professional designations granted by IIMC and is an advanced continuing education program that prepares participants to perform complex municipal duties. The program entails extensive, rigorous education with a requirement for professional and social contribution. Candidates must demonstrate that they have actively pursued education and professional activities.

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Master Academy at a Glance

Customize your own agenda. Registration includes instruction and digital materials specific to the days you attend. Earn up to 15 hours (or 7.5 points) towards your IIMC-CMC or MMC by attending. Qualifies for points at a rate of 1 point per 2 in-class contact hours.

Dates

Early 2026: check back for dates

Format

Live Online via Zoom

Tuition

$299 3-day package
$149 1-day package

Last Year's Agenda

Customize your agenda with topics that are meaningful to you.

Master Academy is a series of live online and on Zoom delivering active learning through breakouts, group work and polling. Participants select and register for their sessions. Customize your own agenda. Registration includes instruction and digital materials specific to the days you attend. Earn up to 15 hours (or 7.5 points) towards your IIMC-CMC or MMC by attending. Qualifies for points at a rate of 1 point per 2 in-class contact hours.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Thrive: Mastering Mental Wellness & Stress Resilience
10 a.m.-12 p.m.

In this dynamic, 2-hour session, participants will gain practical tools to enhance mental well-being and build resilience in the face of stress. The course explores evidence-based strategies for managing workplace pressures, cultivating emotional intelligence, and fostering a balanced, productive mindset. By focusing on proactive wellness practices and stress management techniques, attendees will learn how to thrive in demanding environments, improve decision-making, and maintain long-term personal and professional well-being.

Instructor: Jessica Maes, Program Coordinator, Schreiber Institute for Women's Leadership, UW-Green Bay.

Lunch
12-1 p.m.
Session 1: Choose One
1-4 p.m.
Ethics & Leadership

We all have a responsibility to model ethical behavior and create a culture of integrity within the organization. In this course, participants will explore different ethical frameworks, learn how to make ethical decisions, and develop strategies for embedding ethics into the organizational culture. They will also gain an understanding of how to navigate ethical dilemmas and create an ethical decision-making framework for their teams.

Instructor: Joan Groessl, Ph.D., Professional & Director, Social Work Professional Programs, UW-Green Bay

The Multi-Gen Municipality

Today's local government offices work at the crossroads of multiple generations. Each generation has distinct values, communication styles and expectations. Engaging effectively requires insight and adaptability. This interactive three-hour session will explore how intergenerational dynamics impact your work, from collaborating with colleagues to engaging with residents and elected officials.

Instructor: Chris Ledvina, Ph.D., Business Development Specialist, Continuing Education & Workforce Training, UW-Green Bay

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Beware of the Bad Guys: Fraud & the Dark Web
10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dive into the shadowy world of cybercrime in this eye-opening session. Learn how fraudsters operate on the dark web, exploiting vulnerabilities and targeting unsuspecting victims. We'll explore real-life case studies, uncover the latest tactics used by cybercriminals and provide practical tips to protect yourself and your organization. Equip yourself with the knowledge to stay one step ahead of the bad guys and safeguard your digital life. Are you ready to uncover the secrets of the dark web and fortify your defenses? Join us and stay safe in the digital age.

Instructor: Kasia Harvell, AVP Compliance Officer; and David Pilot, Vice President, Fraud Intelligence, US Bank

Lunch
12-1 p.m.
Session 2: Choose One
1-4 p.m.
Accessibility in Public Space & Digital Resources

Accessibility is not just a legal requirement, it is a cornerstone of creating equitable, inclusive communities where all residents can thrive. Municipal clerks and treasurers play a pivotal role in ensuring public spaces, documents and digital resources are accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Gain a clear understanding of accessibility standards, including ADA requirements for public spaces and digital resources.

Instructor: Lynn Hardginski, Business Services Consultant, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation

Crisis Ready: Emergency Management Essentials

This course will cover essential federal resources and tools, focusing on their application during crises. Participants will learn how to connect and integrate these federal resources with local state systems to enhance emergency response efforts. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of how to effectively manage and coordinate resources during an emergency, ensuring a more efficient response.

Instructor: Pat Fahey, Deputy Public Assistance Officer, Wisconsin Emergency Management

Friday, January 24, 2025

How to Leverage Technology to Improve Efficiency, Communication & Creativity in the Clerk's Office
10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Unlock the full potential of your clerk's office with the power of technology! This session will guide you through innovative tools and strategies to enhance efficiency, streamline communication and boost creativity. Discover how to automate routine tasks, facilitate seamless collaboration and foster a more dynamic and productive work environment. Whether you're looking to improve document management, enhance team interactions or inspire creative problem-solving, this session will provide you with the insights and practical tips you need. Join us to transform your clerk's office into a hub of modern efficiency and innovation. Ready to revolutionize your workflow? Let's get started.

Instructor: Nicole Virant, Program Coordinator, Continuing Education and Workforce Training, UW-Green Bay

Lunch
12-1 p.m.
Keeping Your Sanity on the Frontlines
1-4 p.m.

In this interactive session, participants will learn processes and tools for de-escalating intense situations for a positive result. We’ll examine the unique challenges of being in a public-facing role in today’s world and practice techniques to communicate with a variety of audiences. In the final part of this session, participants will compare and discuss methods to improve personal well-being at work.

Instructor: Lydia Guell, Program Specialist, Continuing Education and Workforce Training, UW-Green Bay

Important Information

Important information to consider before you register.

Participation

Participants are required to have their camera on during sessions to to verify engagement. UW-Green Bay expects that students limit outside distractions, remain in one location for the duration of the session (no driving or doing errands) and actively participate in group discussions and activities. Plan to be away from your office/desk during training without the ability to perform daily tasks. 

Attendance

Participants must attend all sessions live online. Sessions are not recorded. Participants who miss 25% or more of a session and/or do not complete the associated assessments will not receive credit for the session.

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations have a $40 non-refundable processing charge. Cancellations after January 2, 2026, will not receive a refund. It is impossible to refund 100% of the registration fee. It is important to note that numerous contractual obligations are incurred long before the event with financial commitments to expenditures that may not be refundable to the university. If you cancel, you will not receive Master Academy handouts.

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If you have any questions about Master Academy, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. 

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