That one time in Baltimore
In September 2024, I had the privilege of attending the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR) Annual Education Conference in vibrant Baltimore, Maryland—a moment I had eagerly anticipated yet approached with a touch of trepidation.
When the public doesn’t show up: rethinking what engagement really means
Most public-sector organizations understand the importance of public engagement. It’s in the mandate, the messaging and the meeting agendas. But… even with the best intentions and well-crafted communications, the turnout can be disappointing. The public doesn’t show up. And when they do, it’s often not the communities you most hoped to reach.
We may miss the ultimate mark, but showing up often leads to other wins
There is something about sitting in a United Nations conference with ministers from Montenegro, Senegal, Türkiye and Serbia that gives you pause and perspective. You realize quickly that progress does not come from big declarations. It comes from listening, showing up and staying engaged.