As we prepare for the ELGL & ICMA joint event at the ICMA Conference, attendees describe the current state of local government, their mentors, ways to strengthen local government, and of course, their dream six-pack. Link: Raise Your Hand If You’re Going “Back to the Future” with ELGL and ICMA.
Background Check
Elisabeth Wright (Connect: LinkedIn and Twitter) is a second year student in the Northern Illinois University MPA program. She also works as Management and Administrative Intern, Village of Gilberts. Her responsibilities include assisting with the identification of grant/funding opportunities and preparation of grant applications and completing research studies for the Village Administrator.
Prior to working in Gilbert, Elisabeth served as an International Student Advisor, ELS Language Centers.
Elisabeth received an undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University.
Q & A with Elisabeth
1. Name your career mentors.
My internship site supervisor, Ray Keller, has been an extraordinary mentor as I’m completing my MPA.
2. Describe the current state of local government.
Local government is in a state of change. With increasingly diverse demographics, coupled with new technologies to engage local residents, local government professionals are challenged to shift their management techniques.
3. During her presidency, Bonnie Svrcek encouraged ICMA members to do “Just One Thing” for the organization. What’s one thing we can do to strengthen local government?
Increase transparency in order to raise confidence in local government.
4. In keeping with the beer tasting theme, tell us what we’d find in your ideal six pack.
I’m not a beer expert! Anything tasty!
Supplemental Reading
- New Sensation: Elisabeth Wright, Village of Gilberts
- Gilberts: Ray Keller, Village Administrator
- Gilberts officials balance the budget
- On Campus with Northern Illinois University MPA Program
Previous Profiles
- Quick Take: Mitch Foster, Kingsley, MI, Village Manager
- C. James Ervin, Town of Rocky Mount, VA
- Tamara Lynn Schaps, Evans School of Public Affairs
- Eric Norenberg, Oberlin (OH) City Manager
- Joe Casey, Henrico County, VA, Deputy County Manager
- Jason Escareno, San Mateo County, CA
- Ann Janda, Milton, VT
- Lee Worsley, Durham County
- Dan Weinheimer, Fort Collins, CO