Through programs ranging from broad newly elected officials orientations to customized workshops and advanced leadership programs, elected officials, administrators, and staff count on Vinson Institute continuing education for the tools they need throughout their careers to help make government in Georgia better.

More than 16,000 training registrations were logged in 2009. Evaluations and assessments by participants confirm their belief that training makes them more effective in serving their communities and the state.

Faculty continued to develop programming that is accessible and cost-effective and that best serves client needs. For example, the Institute expanded training opportunities in planning and zoning to help commission members and officials successfully manage these activities. Held at conference training events or onsite at a local government, the specialized instruction is both a thorough introduction to the process and a how-to session in conducting meetings and developing policy.

Special "mobile workshops" held during summer 2009 provided local officials around the state with information and options on innovative projects related to agriculture, water, and Georgia's changing demographics. Participants had easy access to a wealth of expertise available through various sources and the opportunity to witness initiatives firsthand.

The Georgia Legislative Leadership Institute (GLLI) and the Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP) continued to help Georgia's top state elected and appointed leaders hone their personal leadership abilities for successfully meeting tough job challenges. Held every two years following an election, GLLI involves a group of 25 newer legislators selected by House and Senate leadership. In 2009, 56 senior management officials participated in ELDP, an annual program.

The China Public Manager Training Program celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2009, with activities in Beijing and Jiangxi. Coordinated by the Institute's International Center, the program brings instructional expertise to officials dealing with governance challenges at the local and provincial levels and promotes greater global understanding. A key feature is the mix of in-class instruction in China and experiential visits to local, state, and federal agencies in the United States.

The Institute expanded its outreach to students in 2009 by launching the Vinson Institute Fellows Program, an internship opportunity for outstanding undergraduates at the University of Georgia. The program exposes the students to the important work of state and local government, advances their knowledge of the policy process, and stimulates their interest in the public service career field. The Institute continued to engage graduate students through assistantships and co-sponsorship of UGA's nationally ranked Master of Public Administration Program.