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September 3, 2025
With 23 years of experience in both private and public procurement, you might assume I’ve seen it all. But one thing I’ve learned over the years is that there’s always room to grow personally and professionally. That mindset is what led me to the Edge program which is part of Leadership Summit.
I first heard about Edge through an email and remembered hearing great things from colleagues who had participated in previous years. I immediately applied for the scholarship and was thrilled to be selected. I had already decided that if my school district couldn’t cover the cost, I would personally invest in the opportunity. Fortunately, they reimbursed my expenses before the program began. Still, even if they hadn’t, it would have been worth every penny for the value I received.
The Power of Community
One of the biggest reasons I joined Edge was to challenge myself. I’m a classic introvert—comfortable working solo in my office—but I’ve always known I needed to build confidence and strengthen my leadership skills. Edge offered the right kind of stretch.
Before we ever met in person, we formed small groups that met bi-weekly. We discussed the curriculum, shared challenges, and supported one another professionally and personally. These sessions helped me hear new perspectives and feel more connected with the group. It was like reuniting with longtime friends when we finally met in Chicago. We’re even planning a mini reunion at Forum later this year.
More Than Just a Class
Edge wasn’t just a course with someone clicking through slides and reading them to you while everyone sat quietly trying to stay awake. It was full of hands-on workshops based on real-world experience that gave me tools I could immediately use in my leadership journey. I particularly enjoyed how we explored how to lead effectively while still making space for self-care. I struggle with that, and I have found new ways to balance my life.
Like other classes, we had to read books and complete assignments. The books were great and had actionable things to incorporate into our workflow. They gave me great ideas and things to think about when I face challenges at work, or even in my personal life. I also found value working one-on-one with a coach. She helped me look at challenges from different angles and offered practical strategies I could use immediately.
A New Kind of Confidence
Being exposed to new ideas and hearing how others approach similar challenges was transformative. I especially valued our day with the Impact and Academy cohorts. Being in a room full of so much knowledge and experience was energizing, and the collaborative exercises we did together helped me see myself and my leadership style in a new light.
Since returning from Edge, I’ve noticed a real shift in how I approach my work. I find that I feel more confident in speaking up, sharing my ideas, and taking on new responsibilities. I’ve even started journaling to help me deal with my negative emotions and track my growth. Now, when I face setbacks or negative experiences, I write down a note and spend a few moments reflecting on what happened and what I can learn. I also make a point to note at least one small task I accomplished that day—no matter how minor—to remind myself that I’m still making progress, even if I’ve faced a setback.
Paying It Forward
I rave about Edge to anyone who will listen, whether they’re in my organization or my local chapter, and tell them about the incredible impact it has had on my confidence and capabilities as a procurement leader. But I always add this: be ready to engage. Don’t sit back and stay out of discussions or skip the exercises. The more you invest in the experience, the more you’ll get out of it.
Edge gave me exactly what I needed: clarity, tools, and—most importantly—confidence. It’s the most impactful professional development program I’ve ever attended, and I’m excited to keep moving forward in my leadership journey with the support of NIGP.
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