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For more than 80 years, the Vinson Institute has worked with public officials throughout Georgia and around the world to improve governance and people's lives. From Georgia's early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of almost 10 million, the Institute has helped government leaders navigate change and forge strong directions for a better Georgia.
Press Releases > New Standard of Excellence Program is Announced

New Standard of Excellence Program is Announced: March 20, 2009

Contact: Courtney Yarbrough, cryarb@uga.edu; 706.542.6221
Athens, Ga. – County commissioners will soon be able to expand their continuing education options through the Standard of Excellence program. The new initiative builds on the long-standing training partnership between the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG).

The Standard of Excellence program was developed in recognition by both organizations that lifelong learning can be a key factor in the effective career of a county leader, said Jennifer Frum, Vinson Institute assistant director. “The program includes several achievement milestones and culminates with the Lifetime Achievement Level,” she noted. (Currently there are two training programs offered for county officials: the Certified Commissioner Program and the Certified Commissioners Advanced Program.)

“The Standard of Excellence emphasizes consistent ongoing training throughout a county official’s tenure in office and is not just another certification program,” explained Ross King, ACCG deputy director. The new program also formally recognizes individuals who have actively participated in the county association over the long term, he added. “Time is one of our most valued resources, and the Standard of Excellence Program will acknowledge participants’ commitment of time to our many programs and meetings offered throughout the year.”

“The Vinson Institute is dedicated to promoting excellence in government at all levels. We look forward to working with ACCG in advancing the professional development of county officials so they can best serve their communities,” said Steve Wrigley, Vinson Institute director.

The program will be formally introduced at the 2009 ACCG convention in April.

Writer: Ann Allen

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