Reflections from the ICMA Conference: Growth, Connection, and Purpose
Author: JaConna Brooker (Wake County Government, NC)
My third International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Conference as an attendee and second as an ICMA Local Government Management Fellow was truly a success. Tampa provided the perfect backdrop for a week of learning, connection, and inspiration. Between the sunshine, streetcars, and festivals, the city’s vibrant energy matched the enthusiasm of local government professionals gathered from across the nation.
Each ICMA conference reminds me why I chose a career in public service. It offers new lessons, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of motivation to continue serving communities through local government. One of the major highlights this year was being deeply honored with the J. Thomas Lundy Award from the National Association of County Administrators (NACA). This recognition reaffirmed my passion for public service and my commitment to continuous growth and impact in local government.
During the conference, I also had the opportunity to participate in two County Administrator Idea Exchanges, where administrators discussed the unexpected challenges their counties have faced and the innovative solutions they developed to serve their communities. Listening to these conversations reinforced my determination to continue growing as a local government professional and to be part of the positive change that shapes stronger, more resilient communities.
The discussions also prompted me to reflect on my own local government experience, specifically, the kinds of changes I hope to help foster and the importance of surrounding myself with the right people and resources to make that change possible. The Idea Exchanges were truly an experience to remember: a space to learn, network, and reflect on how collective wisdom and collaboration strengthen our field.
I am also grateful to have received a scholarship that made my attendance possible; an investment that allowed me to continue learning, connecting, and blossoming as a local government professional at another incredible ICMA Conference in another beautiful city.
As I approach the final stretch of my ICMA Fellowship, I carry forward the lessons, inspiration, and encouragement gained from this experience. I look forward to applying these insights to my work and continuing to grow in service to the community I am proud to serve.
Author: JaConna Brooker (Wake County Government, NC)
JaConna has also been named a 2025 J. Thomas Lundy Scholarship recipient. Her award will help cover the costs of attending the ICMA conference, where she will continue to build on her leadership in local government.