Welcome

Philip C. Harris, D.B.A Executive Director Citizens Investigative Board Office of the City Manager North Miami, FL President South Florida Chapter NFBPA

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA)–South Florida Chapter, it is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm welcome to the NFBPA Board of Directors, the NFBPA National Committee Members, and NFBPA Members from across the State of Florida, and attendees of the Annual NFBPA Emerge Conference 2023 here at Florida Memorial University in the vibrant City of Miami Gardens, Florida. We will gather under this year’s inspiring conference theme of “Equity & Connectivity.” This theme has been carefully chosen to reflect the pressing issues and transformative opportunities that lie at the intersection of local government, historical significance, and the pursuit of a more equitable society.

Equity, the driving force behind our theme, is an essential principle that lies at the heart of building inclusive communities. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has fair and just opportunities to thrive, regardless of their background, race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic status. By exploring the multifaceted dimensions of equity, we aim to shed light on the disparities that persist within our societies and brainstorm innovative approaches to create a more equitable future.

Furthermore, connectivity plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, understanding, and progress. In an era characterized by rapid globalization, technological advancements, health and wellness opportunities with the ability to connect and engage with diverse perspectives have never been more critical. By embracing connectivity, we can bridge divides, break down barriers, and build stronger networks of individuals who are united in their commitment to effecting positive change.

Please join a diverse group of workshop leaders, educators, and practitioners who will provide practical ideas, and relevant information to help meet the challenges and rewards of public service careers. The South Florida Chapter Emerging Leaders and local planning committee have been working diligently to organize the finest annual conference. Our sponsors, volunteers, and NFBPA’s Planning Committee have provided this opportunity for a robust professional development and networking experience.

One of the significant assets of our community is you and your commitment to delivering superior public service. Your expertise coupled with your willingness to share ideas with other public sector organizations leads to developing, managing, and sustaining Black Public Administrators, which ultimately results in efficient government.

I want to commend you for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend this wonderful one-day conference. I also would like to extend to you best wishes during your stay. I look forward to seeing you and trust that you will be relaxed, rewarded, and rejuvenated by the beauty and splendor of South Florida.

Sincerely,

Philip C. Harris, D.B.A., President NFBPA South Chapter

Darnell Brown Retired Chief Operating Officer City of Cleveland Cleveland, OH President NFBPA

Dear NFBPA EMERGE Conference Attendees:

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the EMERGE 2023 Conference hosted by the prestigious Florida Memorial University. Since 2019, NFBPA has hosted EMERGE conferences in local communities, with the goal of providing public administrators access to leading experts and an unparallel network of community leaders from across the country. This year, we focus on the theme “Equity and Connectivity.”

NFBPA seeks to support and encourage the professional development of our colleagues choosing public service careers. Through participation in this event, you will experience professional development as you hear from some outstanding minds in local and regional government and public administration. Our goal during this conference is to ensure you become equipped with new ideas and enhanced skills while expanding your network! Throughout the conference, you will have a wonderful opportunity to interact with and learn from some of the foremost leaders who have successfully led their organizations through the pandemic, financial constraints, and other challenges while continuing to demonstrate excellence in governance and service delivery! We hope you will take advantage of every opportunity to learn from your colleagues while you are here.

An event like this would not be possible without the diligent work of NFBPA South Florida Chapter President Phillip C. Harris, D.B.A., and his dedicated host committee. They have tirelessly worked with the national office to bring this conference to fruition. Thank you to the South Florida Chapter for your continuing commitment to our organization!

Also, special thanks are due to our EMERGE 2023 sponsors for your continued support of NFBPA. I encourage everyone to visit with our sponsors and learn more about how their partnerships can enhance your operations.

It is an honor to serve as NFBPA President, and I look forward to interacting with you all! Welcome and enjoy the conference!

Warmest Regards,

Darnell Brown NFBPA President

July 20, 2023

Greetings!

As Mayor of Miami-Dade County, it is my honor to welcome the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) and the South Florida Chapter EMERGE Conference.

I can’t think of a better place to host such an inspirational event than South Florida; where the principles of achievement, upward mobility, and service to the community can be seen in all that we do. We are proud to support the NFBPA and its mission to serve as a catalyst for linking public and private organizations, as well as academic institutions. Your work supports the professional development of African Americans choosing public service careers each and every day.

We are grateful for your work to nurture leadership that reflects people of all background and who will make contributions that shape our community for the better. Once again, we welcome you to our great County and we hope you enjoy your stay with us.

Sincerely,

Daniella Levine Cava Mayor, Miami-Dade County

Conference Chair

Joanna Reid-Enoise, Ed.D., MPH

Manager Planning & Evaluation

Community Services Department

Palm Beach County Government Palm Beach, FL

Dear Colleagues,

Conference Co-Chair

Krystal Patterson, MPA President

H.E.R.S. Consulting, LLC. Tamarac, FL

Welcome to NFBPA Emerge 2023 hosted by the South Florida chapter. We are excited to have you join us at the prestigious Florida Memorial University; Miami’s own Historical Black College University. This Emerge conference will highlight “Equity and Connectivity”. There will be a series of panel discussions and a host of speakers providing insightful discussions that will help prepare and propel the emerging leader in today’s highly competitive and digitized workforce.

The purpose of Emerge is to focus on emerging leaders who might be in transition or seeking professional development with an emphasis on Public Administration. We aim to ensure every emerging leader is provided with the necessary tools to succeed in today’s workplace.

A heartfelt thank you to the professional development committee, NFBPA National Office, guest speakers, sponsors, and volunteers who partnered with us in delivering EMERGE 2023. We look forward to learning and EMERGing with you!

Regards,

Joanna Reid-Enoise, Ed.D, MPH

Krystal Patterson, MPA EMERGE 23’ Chair EMERGE 23’ Co- Chair

TO OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS