James Worsley, Ph.D., ICMA-CM: Scholarship Blog (Made possible by MissionSquare Retirement)
Building Bridges at the ICMA Conference with the Help of NACA and MissionSquare Retirement
I'm ecstatic to share that I was awarded a scholarship to attend the ICMA Conference this year in Pittsburgh. The opportunity felt magical, and I couldn't have been more excited about the experience.
As an African American leader passionate about local government, this conference became a bridge to new opportunities, knowledge, and networks I had long hoped to explore. It brought together some of the greatest minds, visionaries, and leaders, and being a part of it was a transformative experience.
Why This Scholarship Meant So Much to Me
Receiving this scholarship wasn't just about the financial benefit--it was acknowledgment of the work and passion I had put into my profession. It affirmed that I was moving in the necessary direction and motivated me to continue striving for excellence.
This scholarship allowed me to:
Expand my knowledge: I attended insightful educational sessions and keynotes that helped me gain a deeper understanding of topics like diversity, equity and inclusion, homelessness, economic mobility, and crossing the generational divide.
Build my network: Meeting and connecting with local government professionals, exhibitors, and students was invaluable. Engaging with like-minded individuals who shared the same enthusiasm and curiosity in local government was a highlight.
Recognize collaboration is key: One of the recurring themes throughout the ICMA conference was the importance of collaboration. Whether it was during the sessions or in informal networking encounters, it became evident that breakthroughs often happen when people from different backgrounds and perspectives come together.
What Energized Me Most
One of the things I was most excited about was NACA's Idea Exchange meetings. It offered me a global understanding of important issues facing local government with fresh approaches, which has been crucial for my personal and professional growth.
Beyond the educational sessions, I had the chance to explore Pittsburgh and immerse myself in the local culture while meeting fellow attendees from diverse backgrounds. The conversations I had were lifechanging and broadened my view of the profession.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I want to express my deepest appreciation to NACA and MissionSquare Retirement for believing in me and giving me this unbelievable opportunity. I also want to thank everyone who supported me along the way--your encouragement meant the world to me.
This experience helped me build knowledge, inspiration, and connections that will continue to shape my development in local government. I am excited about what's to come and how I can implement everything I learned.
Author:
James Worsley, Ph.D., ICMA-CM is currently the Deputy County Administrator in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
Dr. Worsley was appointed Deputy County Administrator for Human Services in October 2020. Prior to being appointed Deputy, he served as Director of Chesterfield Department of Parks and Recreation.
As Deputy County Administrator, he oversees the operations of:
Community Corrections Services
Community Engagement and Resources
Treatment Courts
Juvenile Detention Services
Mental Health Support Services
Social Services
He also serves as liaison for Lucy Corr, Courts and the Chesterfield Health District. Before coming to Chesterfield County in 2016, Worsley served as Director of Columbus, GA Department of Parks and Recreation. He holds a bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation and a master's degree in management, both from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a doctorate in leadership from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Dr. Worsley and his wife, Tara, have three children.