NABCO 2024 Leadership Summit & Retreat: Uniting African American County Officials for Empowerment and Advocacy

The National Association of Black County Officials (NABCO) proudly held the NABCO 2024 Leadership Summit & Retreat, from April 25-27, 2024.

NABCO 2024 Leadership Summit & Retreat

In the heart of downtown Miami, the InterContinental Miami served as the backdrop for this transformative gathering. The event stood as a beacon of empowerment, providing a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and strategic advocacy for African American elected and appointed county officials.

Dynamic agenda

The Leadership Summit & Retreat had a dynamic agenda, featuring insightful sessions, networking opportunities, and moments of relaxation. Attendees engaged with industry leaders, executives, and fellow county officials from across the United States, fostering connections and exchanging ideas to drive positive change in their communities.

Throughout the Summit & Retreat, attendees enjoyed engaging sessions and events focused on leadership and advocacy. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, US Congresswoman Fredericka Wilson joined Miami-Dade Commissioner Kionne McGhee, NABCO President to welcome guests to Miami at the Welcome to Miami Rooftop Party.

“We were thrilled to host the NABCO 2024 Leadership Summit & Retreat in Miami,” expressed Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kionne McGhee, President of NABCO.

“This event served as a testament to our unwavering dedication to empowering Black county officials and amplifying their voices in the decision-making process. By convening in Miami, we not only fostered a supportive environment for collaboration and growth but also symbolized our collective resolve to drive meaningful change and representation within our communities. Together, we forged a path towards a future where every voice is heard, every perspective valued, and every opportunity realized.”

Politics vs Policy Panel

At the Politics vs Policy Panel, attendees delved into thought-provoking discussions and panels moderated by industry experts, including Bill Diggs, Rodney Ellis, Mary Estimé-Irvin, Stanley Moore, and Victoria Siplin. The panel discussion emphasized the pivotal role of Black leadership in local communities, highlighting its significance in shaping the future of politics. The discussions resonated with themes of empowerment and advocacy, underscoring the collective commitment to advancing social justice and equity at the grassroots level.

Cocktails & Conversation

Cocktails & Conversation with District Attorney Fani Willis included an outdoor panel discussion featuring journalist Roland Martin; Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis; and Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore, NABCO Vice-President. Miami-Dade Commissioner Kionne McGhee, NABCO President closed the night with a panel discussion with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis who engaged attendees on law, the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and mentorship.

Esteemed guest speakers

Attendees had the opportunity to engage with esteemed guest speakers, including Kneeland Youngblood, Founding Partner of Pharos Capital Group; Desmond Meade, Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition; and Freddie Figgers, Founder of Figgers Communication. These influential leaders shared insights and strategies for effective leadership and advocacy, inspiring attendees to drive positive change within their communities.

NABCO 2024 Leadership Summit & Retreat Awards

The Summit & Retreat ended with a memorable celebration honoring Black trailblazers. Guest speaker Journalist Jeff Johnson delivered remarks on the importance of power, politics, and voting, inspiring attendees to continue their advocacy efforts.

During his remarks, Jeff Johnson commended all Black county officials in attendance as well as all of the event’s attendees. “Thank you so much for who you all are, thank you for the legacies you are leaving, and thank you so much for the sacrifices you have made. Move forward in power, but most importantly let’s move forward in love,” said Jeff Johnson.

Recognitions

Additionally, distinguished individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions:

Lifetime Achievement Award: Alonzo Mourning Trailblazer Award: Connie W. Kinnard Game-Changer Award: Clarence D. Brown Community Impact Award: James Hawkins Community Impact Award: Patricia Fairclough-Staggers

Steadfast commitment

NABCO’s commitment to advocacy on behalf of African American elected and appointed county officials remained steadfast. Since its establishment in 1975, NABCO has served as a vital forum for networking, information sharing, and issue advocacy, championing the diverse populations in America’s counties, boroughs, and parishes.

For more information, please visit NABCO’s website.