After many years in the CAGP organization, it is my honor to serve as your president. With the uncertain economy driving our professional and personal lives, we face trying times. CAGP is not immune to the economy and we have implemented changes in order to continue as an organization. One of the major changes is the cancellation of the 2009 Summer Conference.
In lieu of the summer conference we plan a one day regional training session and are researching webinars currently offered through the School of Government. The regional sessions will be the same format as held by Bill Ray in Burlington as well as the two that were held in the eastern region of the state. If you have any suggestions for topics or if you would like to host a session please contact Debbie Anderson at danderson@catawbacountync.gov or me at ronald.whitfield@dhhs.nc.gov .
The Spring Conference that was held in New Bern was outstanding, even though we had low attendance. Beatrice Abernathy and her committee did a great job planning and putting on this conference. The comments from the vendors were positive and they liked changing the vendor show from summer to spring. Many vendors that talked with me plan to participate in the 2010 Durham Conference.
The Board is always seeking suggestions from the membership as to the direction and training needs for the organization. This is your organization and we solicit your help to insure the organization flourishes. In order for CAGP to grow we need members to be actively involved. We always need volunteers for committees, conferences and leadership roles. Please contact myself or another Board member to find out how you can become more involved.
Feel free to contact me with any suggestions or concerns that you may have to improve and expand CAGP.
Ron Whitfield, CLGPO, C.P.M.
President
Carolinas Association of Governmental Purchasing
ronald.whitfield@dhhs.nc.gov or 919-855-3510
