FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2003

CONTACT: Connie Sanderson, (515) 271-4840
Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119

FIRST CLASS TO GRADUATE FROM THE IOWA CERTIFIED PUBLIC MANAGER PROGRAM AT DRAKE UNIVERSITY

The Iowa Certified Public Manager (ICPM) program has been recognized and accredited by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, the Center for Professional Studies, Drake University, and the State of Iowa announced today.

Accreditation is awarded to select programs that successfully endorse dynamic leadership, high ethical standards and demonstrated excellence and quality principles in public management. Only one Certified Public Manager program per state is recognized and requires a partnership between the sponsoring state agency and a local university.

On Thursday, May 22, the first ICPM class, made up of 18 participants from the State of Iowa and Polk County, will graduate from the 17-month program. Graduation ceremonies will be held at 5 p.m. in Sheslow Auditorium in Old Main on the Drake campus.

ICPM graduates provide a positive impact to their organizations and the citizens of Iowa by applying professional skills when managing public offices and performing public duties, said Connie Sanderson, director of Drake's Center for Professional Studies.

According to a current participant, "The ICPM program uses fun and innovative approaches to equip participants with valuable leadership and management skills. The principles and techniques taught during the ICPM have been very useful in my work."

The Center for Professional Studies, Drake University, is one of the few professional development experiences to combine an innovative learning model with the skills of respected faculty members. Participants gain the skills and credentials today's professionals need with the flexibility that demanding lifestyles require.

For more information about the Center for Professional Studies, Drake University, call (515) 271-4840.