40th Annual BIG NTI Conference Recap 2018
I write this blog as I await the announcement to board my flight back to Washington D.C. after a phenomenal week at the 40th Annual Blacks in Government National Training Institute (BIG NTI). This annual training event ran from August 13-16, held at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel and hosted more than 2,500 professionals from Federal and state governments as well as private and not-for-profit organizations.
The theme for this year’s BIG NTI was “Leveraging Your Professional Attributes for Sustained Growth and Development.” While the institute is primarily focused on the professional development of attendees, it also boasts thriving community engagement, leadership, academic achievement, and military veterans’ programs among its core initiatives.
Management Concepts was a proud Gold Sponsor, presented a leadership workshop, and hosted a Munch & Mingle networking event in conjunction with the BIG NOW Generation. The Munch & Mingle networking event gave conference attendees the opportunity to connect with peers, BIG leadership and other special guests. This year’s event featured remarks on “The BIG Experience” from BIG’s National Executive Vice President, Ms. Shirley A. Jones, Esq.
Michelle Clark, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing presented the 4th Annual Leadership Certificate Program Scholarship Award to Emmanuel Onyeobia, Grants Manager at State Veterans Home Construction Grants Program; Office of Capital Asset Management.
There were several all-day forums held by Federal agencies including the Departments of State, Energy, Labor, and the Navy. Management Concepts held a one-day Leadership training program, “Creating Connections to Improve Performance and Foster Engagement.” The program covered mentoring, managing change, cultivating motivation and engagement, and building relationships through collaboration.
The session reached capacity before the start of the institute, and due to continued demand, we were able to reopen registration for additional participants. The training was very well received, one attendee said: “I am really enjoying this leadership course. I am glad you are depositing into Aspiring BIG leaders.”
Another attendee of the training said this of the program: “An AWESOME training experience in leadership, collaboration, and networking with Margaret Eggleston.”
After being professionally enriched, motivated and challenged in the sessions during the day, attendees were able to participate in a wide variety of events in the evenings. There was something for everyone; from networking and receptions to shopping and even a gospel concert. Of course, attendees were excited to partake in the local cuisine – the seafood gumbo, beignets and café au lait were among my favorites.
I’m thrilled to have participated as an attendee as well as a representative of Management Concepts. The week was packed with opportunities to learn and grow both professionally and personally. I highly recommend this event to leaders and emerging leaders across every workforce. It’s well worth the investment.
