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Education: “The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of the government in the next.”-Abraham Lincoln
We as Certified Illinois Assessing officers, should strive for the highest educational standards in order to better ourselves and to better serve the public and our peers. The CIAO Association promotes education by appointing a member to serve on the IPAI Board of Directors and by donating for course development. Most recently, we were thrilled to make a donation to facilitate the creation of an online continuing education course. We also sponsor a continuing education scholarship for our members.
Legislation: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth” – Abraham Lincoln
As CIAOs, we have a responsibility to not only stay abreast of pending and recently adapted legislation, but also to keep the best interests of our constituents in mind as we advocate or oppose legislation.
Socialization: “I’m a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the heart to let him down.” -Abraham Lincoln
Networking, mentorship and leadership are near and dear to my heart. Those who have come before have the moral obligation to reach out to those travelling behind. I am very excited for some new initiatives that my wonderful peers on the CIAO Association board and I will be bringing forward soon. Already on the schedule is a new social and networking event involving coffee and donuts (Yum!) at the Southwest Conference in Collinsville.
In closing, Abraham Lincoln also said that “the best way to predict the future is to create it.” I am excited to see what the future holds… And I am honored to have a chance to help shape that future.
Chesney M. Leafblad, CIAO-M
CIAO Association Chairwoman
