Dichondra R. Johnson, MBA, MPA

Spoiler Alert: Gregory J. Zimprich, APR, Fellow PRSA and I have retired from teaching at Metro State University. Last week, we graded our final final exams and submitted the last of our grades. How did this journey start? Anne Zimmerman (1942-2007), agency leader, comms director for Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and professor at Drake University, influenced my career in public relations. She brought real-world experience and perspective to the classroom, and her hands-on approach stuck with me. She also instilled leadership lessons, urging me to serve as president of Women in Communications on campus and wrote a letter of recommendation for me to get internships. What Anne likely did not know is she also inspired me to teach. I threw my hat in the ring when a community faculty position opened at Metropolitan State University in 2004. I wanted to help students prepare for their careers. I hoped to instill an appreciation for the power and potential of public relations while offering resources for general success. Knowing that Metro State students are nontraditional, I also wanted to help them distinguish themselves in a competitive job market – our alums have landed in some incredible places! #ProudProf I taught solo for the first 10 years, and when the program grew, Greg Zimprich, my career-long and dear friend, joined as a co-teacher in 2014. Together, we expanded the curriculum, introduced new content and created a semi-annual reunion for students and alums to connect. In 2020, we piloted a career exploration program with Minnesota PRSA, connecting diverse students to exceptional employers, including Mall of America, Medtronic, American Academy of Neurology, Best Buy and more. I have reveled in bringing in hundreds of guest speakers – thank you to all who shared your time and expertise – creating PR plans and materials for hundreds of Minnesota-based organizations, introducing students to books like StrengthsFinder, A Curious Mind, Mindset, Why Should the Boss Listen to You, and advocating for the use of the AP Stylebook and weekly quizzes on current events. Teaching has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career, and it’s also the job I’ve held longer than any of the others on my resume. Thank you, Metro State, students, alums, and my LinkedIn network for being part of this incredible endeavor over the past two decades. What’s next? I’m focusing on Pineapple, will keep the MSU PR Majors reunion going, and am dabbling in some lifestyle content around personal growth and self–discovery—follow along with TwoMinutesDuJour.com. And just because we can’t get enough of public relations principles, Greg and I may collaborate on a textbook.

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What is the Office of Regional Affairs? By Office of Advocacy On Oct 15, 2024 by Will Purcell, Director of Regional Affairs The Office of Advocacy (Advocacy) advances the views and concerns of small businesses before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts, and state policymakers. As the voice for small businesses in the federal government, it is critical for Advocacy to hear from small business stakeholders all over the country so that we can better understand their concerns. After all, different regions have different concerns, and the Office of Regional Affairs works diligently to make sure those are heard in Washington D.C. Advocacy’s Office of Regional Affairs consists of staffers spread across the country. A regional advocate is located in each of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) ten geographic regions. The advocates are the eyes and ears for Advocacy across the nation. They help promote and champion small businesses in their region. Regional advocates: Represent the Chief Counsel for Advocacy in their regions, often facilitating opportunities for the Chief Counsel and DC staff to meet with local businesses concerned about regulations that impact their business. Conduct extensive outreach to regional small business communities so that Advocacy’s DC team is better informed of distinct regional and local small business concerns. Maintain a partnership with regional and district SBA staffers to ensure that SBA is aware of Advocacy’s products and actions. Refer regulatory concerns for already existing rules to regional Regulatory Fairness Boards and the SBA Office of the National Ombudsman. This ensures that even small businesses outside of Advocacy’s scope of work are heard. Each regional advocate engages with small businesses differently, based on their region, their network of contacts, and their background. However, all the regional advocates work to amplify the voices of the small businesses in their regions to ensure that critical information makes it back to Washington D.C.  The advocates amplify small business voices by relaying stories from the field. The advocates’ news articles are a useful way to showcase their work. This allows Advocacy to spotlight small business struggles and successes, which provides personal insight into complex regulatory law and a face to government statistics. If you are a small business and wish to reach out to an advocate in your region, or you are a trade group or local association that wishes to have a regional advocate speak at one of your events, feel free to reach out to an advocate in your region. Alternatively, you can reach out to Will Purcell, Director of the Office of Regional Affairs, at [email protected].

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Why Is This Leader Ignoring Violent Crime in Chicago? As crime rates soar to decades highs in Chicago, we explore the perplexing decisions of local leadership and the implications of open borders. Join us as we analyze the disconnect and what it means for the community. #ChicagoCrime #OpenBorders #LeadershipFail #ViolentCrime #UrbanSafety #CommunityImpact #LawEnforcement #FugitiveTaskForce #CrimeAnalysis #PoliticalCommentary

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During the American Probation and Parole Association conference in Indianapolis, I had the privilege of meeting team members from Micro-Distributing. Their team introduced me to the revolutionary STAT Hair Drug Test – a groundbreaking solution in the fight against substance use. 🔬 How does it work? Their state-of-the-art machine turns hair samples into a liquid form, allowing for fast and accurate testing results. This innovative technology ensures: 1. Quick Turnaround: Results are available almost instantly, making it ideal for urgent testing needs. 2. High Accuracy: The liquid form of hair samples ensures more precise and reliable results compared to traditional methods. 3. Non-Invasive Process: Hair samples are easy to collect, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for all involved. Make sure to check them out and request a demo!! Justin Lee Brent Worley Micro Distributing #CommunitySupervision #DrugTesting #Innovation #WorkplaceSafety #MicroDistributing #STATHairTest https://lnkd.in/g4nrsatF

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#SpecialDistricts, it is time to advocate! Call your member of the U.S. House of Representatives and ask them to vote YES on #HR7525, the bipartisan "Special District Grant Accessibility Act." This bill would breakdown barriers many special districts face in their access to federally-sourced founding for #LocalGovernment by requiring federal agencies to adopt a definition of "#SpecialDistrict" for program rules/regulations. Doing so would set districts on a more level playing field for funding access AND sould set the cornerstone for better federal recognition of districts' services in communities across the country.

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Government employees face huge skills gaps. This is due to many reasons. First, job specifications are outdated and thus emerging skills are not being requiered for the role. Second , learning strategies are not based on data or designed to meet individual needs. Third , talent management and compensation policies discourage employees from growing and learning new skills.

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“My approach in public service emphasises empowerment and strategic support, facilitating leadership while I operate from behind: “1. I focus on enabling leaders to excel, preferring to lead from the background and prioritising team success over personal recognition. “2. The true value of my efforts should be reflected in the measurable improvements in the lives of the people I serve rather than the accolades received.” Dr. Yakama Manty Jones (nee Mara) thanks for sharing the exact story, views and beliefs of many public servants like us. Recently a well respected and very brilliant senior public servant, with whom I serve, said “Bra, lek how you kin say, your professionalism should always speak for who you are. Me sef sef kin keep low profile, so”. Loosely translated into English, “Boss, like you would always say, your professionalism should always speak for who you are. I keep a low profile too”. Maybe, just maybe, I and a lot more people will accept this challenge that you have thrown at us to share our work in the public service. #ShareYourWorkInThePublicService.

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ICMA President Tanya Ange, ICMA-CM, delivered a compelling presidential address at #ICMA2024. As County Administrator of Washington County, OR, Ange called for leadership grounded in civility, integrity, and resilience. With a focus on listening to the membership and shaping a future led by strong, ethical leaders, she emphasized the need to model the values we want to see in local government. "Now, more than ever, we must lead with unshakeable integrity and nurture resilience." What resonated most in Tanya Ange’s presidential address, and how will you apply it in your community?

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A win is a win. https://lnkd.in/eAfT4k9h

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A BILL To amend title 39 of the United States Code to require the Postmaster General to be appointed by the President, subject to Senate confirmation, and for other purposes. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representa- tives of the United States of America in Congress assembled SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Postmaster General Reform Act of 2024’’. SEC. 2. AMENDMENTS. (a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.—Section 202(c) of title 39, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: ‘‘(c)(1) The Postmaster General shall be a voting member of the Board. ‘‘(2) The pay and term of service of the Postmaster General shall be fixed by the Governors.’’ (b) POSTMASTER GENERAL.—Section 203 of title 39,5 United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ‘‘The chief’’ and inserting the following: ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The chief’’; (2) in subsection (a), as so designated by para- graph (1), by striking ‘‘appointed under section 202(c) of this title’’ and inserting ‘‘, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate’’; and (3) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(b) TERMS AND TERM LIMITS.—The Postmaster General shall serve for a term of 5 years, which may be renewed, with the consent of the Senate, for a single addi- tional 5-year term.’’ (c) PROCEDURES OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS.— Section 205(c)(1) of title 39, United States Code, is amended by striking ‘‘in the appointment or removal of the Postmaster General, and’’. (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made by this section shall take effect beginning with the first ap- pointment of an individual to serve as the Postmaster General on or after the date of enactment of this Act.

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Effective communication within municipalities is more crucial than ever. Internal comms professionals are the backbone of keeping staff informed, engaged, and aligned with the city's goals.Discover the key priorities for municipal internal communications and learn how to elevate your strategy for better outcomes.Dive into our latest blog to explore: 1️⃣ Streamlining information dissemination 2️⃣ Enhancing employee engagement 3️⃣ Fostering a culture of transparency 4️⃣ Utilizing innovative communication tools Don't miss out on these insights! Read more here: https://lnkd.in/dEJ36dVJ #InternalCommunications #EmployeeEngagement #PublicSector #CommunicationStrategy

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Drug Free Clubs of America continues to grow — strengthen in numbers! We have over 7,300 active student and faculty staff members and clubs in 45+ schools in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and California. If your child’s school isn’t currently on the map, then here’s some information about starting a chapter: https://lnkd.in/gfeWwtyw #DFCAparent #DFCAengagment #teens #drugfree #teachers #educators #druguseprevention #healthyteens #safeteens #drugfreecommunities #peerpressure #communitiesagainstdrugs #parentsagainstdrugs #makinggoodchoices #saynotodrugs #positivereinforcement #drugfreeclubs #youthdrugprevention #drugfreeschoolprograms #DrugFreeClubsofAmerica

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We are accepting 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Poster artwork submissions! Submit artwork by May 13, 2024. This year’s theme, "Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together" encapsulates the spirit of innovation, resilience, and unity that define the Hispanic experience and recognizes all the Hispanics/Latinos who have been trailblazers and game changers; paving the way for future generations. Everyone, including members of the council, schools and the general public, are encouraged to participate in the submission and nomination of the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Poster. Your poster may be the winner! Submissions must include a brief description with a maximum of two (2) paragraphs explaining the meaning of the poster, your name, email, employer/school, title, and phone number. ……………………………………………………………….. #NationalCouncilOFHispanicEmploymentProgramManagers #NCHEPM #HispanicEmploymentProgramManagers #HEPM #HispanicEmploymentProgram #HEP #HispanicEmployment #HispanicHeritageMonth #HHM #HispanicHeritageMonthTheme #HispanicHeritageMonthThemeArt #PioneersOfChangeShapingTheFutureTogether #PioneersOfChange #ShapingTheFutureTogether

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This week, IEDC gathered federal leaders and the inaugural cohort of 65 ERC Fellows in Washington D.C. to discuss how distressed communities across the nation can greater access federal resources. With the 65 fellows in their field placements providing dedicated technical assistance and capacity-building support now for the next 2.5 years, this convening aimed to enhance communication and build relationships between federal entities and underserved communities to improve their access to federal funding. Read the full announcement here: https://lnkd.in/gU4z7pjn Funded by a $30M cooperative agreement with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and led by IEDC, ERC was created to address enduring economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly affecting historically underserved populations. Explore the 65 projects across 42 states and 2 U.S. territories that are underway for the next 2.5 years, and learn more about the ERC program at https://lnkd.in/dZKMN9BU. RAIN Catalysts National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) Center on Rural Innovation National League of Cities National Association of Counties ICMA - International City/County Management Association #IEDC #EDA #ERCFellow #EconomicRecoveryCorps #FederalResources #EconomicDevelopment

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Today, the United States Justice Department, acting under the authority of the Emmett Till Act, announced a review of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre - considered to be one of the worst single acts of violence against African American people in the history of the United States. This follows the dismissal of a lawsuit brought by the last three survivors of the massacre by the Oklahoma Supreme Court. Although this review will achieve little, it will, it is hoped, provide an accurate accounting of that sordid day in United States history and acknowledge both the descendants of the survivors and the trauma and scars that still persists from this act of racial terrorism. And here is this thing - when the public sector fails to act or in some cases - simply refuses to act - to acknowledge that such past happenstances have real and deep implications in the present - that equality of opportunity is meaningless unless there is equality of condition - then the nonprofit sector must have the courage to step in - yet - with recent Supreme Court decisions - we are seeing funders retreating from making investments that address the real time consequences of these past actions. The nonprofit sector - and those that support us - must have the courage - to throw back the curtains of the past - acknowledge the current and real world implications of such actions - and work to redress them.

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𝗗𝗜𝗔𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗔 𝗣𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗬 𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗪𝗘𝗕𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗥 The State Department for Diaspora Affairs is inviting you to a webinar. When: Jun 8, 2024 Topic: DIASPORA POLICY VALIDATION WEBINAR Register in advance for the webinar using this link: https://lnkd.in/eDra5XSQ After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. See poster for details:

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The recent controversy surrounding offensive comments made at a Trump rally, where Puerto Rico was disparaged as a "floating island of garbage," has sparked outrage and reignited discussions about Puerto Rico's colonial status and the persistent dehumanization faced by its residents. This rhetoric not only reflects profound ignorance of Puerto Rico's rich culture and resilient people but also highlights the stark realities of Puerto Rico's political position as a U.S. territory—one where residents bear the consequences of federal policies without full representation or political power. At its core, this incident underscores an enduring issue: Puerto Rico’s colonial status enables and perpetuates its marginalization within American society, making it easier for its people to be dismissed or insulted in public forums. The following overview examines the evidence of Puerto Rico's colonial reality and explores why, despite calls for justice and self-determination, the United Nations and other international bodies have not intervened to alter Puerto Rico’s status.

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