I started my job at East Carolina University yesterday and had the privilege of meeting with our Executive Director, Dr. Gilman. She struck me as a brilliant and driven woman and I can't wait to work more with her. During our brief chat she mentioned that what stuck out on my resume most to her was my CGMP (Certified Government Meeting Professional). I am proud of this accomplishment, but hadn't thought much about it recently. It seemed easy enough to attain, simply take a course and pass test, but then she told me why.

In one of her previous positions they had to make budget cuts to the organization she was working for. Budget cuts meant that a number of people were going to lose their jobs. Those that had their CGMP certification were spared, and those that did not have this certification frantically tried to obtain it quickly to save their jobs. The tactic didn't work. Dr. Gilman has never forgotten that moment in her career and when she saw my credentials it stuck out.

I encourage anyone, regardless of the field of study, to continue your education, strive for certifications, and further your knowledge. I guess that's a little self-serving coming from the new Coordinator of Continuing Professional Education at ECU, but that doesn't make it less true. Having goals can keep us moving forward. Next up for me will hopefully be a CMP (Certified Meeting Professional). Wish me luck!