Chapter Networking Event

BY KOFI ANTOBAM, VICE-CHAIR, COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

Chapter engagement at the annual conference is a session I look forward to each year to connect with other CSMFO members. The 2021 event was unique compared to previous years’ due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Members were not able to physically hug, fist bump and interact in the traditional way as normally would have happened at an in-person meeting. Nonetheless it was a fun virtual event. The REMO virtual platform allowed the CSMFO President and Past President to address the “whole room” without taking members away from their tables.

REMO provided the opportunity to move from table to table to interact with different members. This was a great opportunity to meet individuals not just from one’s chapter, but members from other chapters. Members on each floor and each table networked and discussed several topics, including how long they have been a part of CSMFO, the location and year of their first conference, the number one benefit they derive from CSMFO, their greatest challenge during the pandemic, among others. Discussions were lively and members wished the event could have lasted longer. Overall, attendees expressed positive feedback on the event and would love to use the REMO platform for future chapter meetings. The smaller setting, ability to move from table to table, and being able to talk without having to resort to the chat function were some highlights of the event. Some views on the event by attendees include: “Good experience, efficient way to do networking without the distraction of food tables on your way to the next… one could pop in from table/floor to the other which was fun.” ~Jennifer Wakeman “This chapter event worked well for a virtual event. I was able to talk to three or four CSMFO members that I have not talked with in the past, making it a great meet and greet time...The event could have been longer with more time to meet other attendees.” ~David Cain Chapter engagement is the bedrock for CSMFO, therefore continuous networking at the chapter level remains crucial to member development. Get involved and do not miss out on your future local CSMFO chapter meetings.