The CSAC Institute for Excellence in County Government will be offering the following courses in conjuction with the Legislative Conference:

Click here to visit the CSAC Institute home page for more information.

Communicating and Presenting Complex Issues and Data

Thursday, May 15
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$129 (includes lunch and materials)

New! Counties often present complex and detailed information to decision-makers and the public, and fall into the trap of overwhelming the audience with too much content or complexity. This course provides techniques to present data, complex issues and analytical information in a way an audience can understand and apply. With practical examples participants examine how to present statistical data, key elements of visual design, and creation of presentations which communicate multifaceted ideas in a clear manner. Participants use their own examples to improve how the data and issues are presented. Instructor is Mary Kirlin, Ph.D., associate professor in Public Policy and Administration at CSU-Sacramento.

Storytelling and Other Leadership Practices in the Art of Persuasion

Friday, May 16
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$129 (includes lunch and materials)

Effective leaders are able to tell stories that speak to others and markedly influence their behaviors. Through hands-on activities the class explores elements of story-telling and how to construct and use stories in the practice of leadership. Participants examine case studies and experiences to develop their own stories. Other practices examined include metaphors, humor, reciprocation, contrast and conformity. These tools are placed in the context of enhancing the transaction between leader and follower and authentically hearing the needs of listeners. Instructor Bill Chiat is Dean of the CSAC Institute and a practitioner of leadership (and storytelling) for 35 years.

Legislative Conference registration does not include these two courses.