Anisti Barrett: Scholarship Blog (Made possible by Engie)

Anisti Barrett seen 4th from the left being awarded her Scholarship, made possible by Engie (seen first on the right, Katy Glynn, Sr. Business Development Manager at ENGIE North America).

Hi everyone! My name is Anisti Barrett and I am second-year Master of Public Administration Student at North Carolina Central University. I recently attended the 2024 ICMA Conference with the help of ENGIE and through NACA’s scholarship fund. As a student, the opportunity to travel and network with local government professionals from all over the world, sharing experiences, and gaining professional insights has been an invaluable investment in my future career projections and aspirations.

One thing that has reverberated in my mind is “everyone needs a coach or mentor” and indeed I was in search of one. By attending the conference, I was able to participate in a speed coaching session where I met professionals at various points in their career. The mentors were mostly public administrators, city/county managers, and assistant city/county managers, and the mentees were diverse in their level and professions. I was able to share my story and get career advice from the mentors. One piece of advice that was encouraged several times at the conference was the importance of working in budgeting/budget management, because it provides a holistic view of local government, as the budget is a significant policy instrument. In addition, I received a credit to use ICMA’s Mentor Program: Coach Connect, which serves as an additional resource to help me find and connect with mentor that will help me to develop professionally.

Anisti (center) being recognized by the NACA Board at the NACA Members event at Puttery, ICMA Annual Conference 2024 (Pittsburgh, PA)

NACA’s Idea Exchange was important to witness for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing around issues that almost every community deals with or is facing. It was nice to see local government administrators learn from each other, offer suggestions, and think through tough issues. As an observer, I was able to pick up research topics, become privy to the challenges that other communities face and potential innovative solutions.

I can honestly say, if I had not received the help of NACA’s scholarship and ENGIE’s generosity, then I do not know when or how I would have attended an ICMA conference, however, I am immensely grateful for all the work that was put into offering the scholarship and hope it can continue for the next generation of local government professionals. It is needed and I humbly thank you all for investing in my future as an early local government professional. Thank you for the inspiring work you do!

Author:

Anisti Barrett is currently studying at North Carolina Central University where she is pursuing her Master of Public Administration

Her scholarship to attend the ICMA Annual Conference 2024 was made possible by our Friend of NACA, Engie.