January 17, 2019
Categories: Continuing Education
Ampa 2019

Can you believe it’s almost here? The American Pets Alive! Conference 2019 takes place February 2 – 4 at the AT&T Conference Center in Austin TX, and tickets are still available. Get them now with our code ThanksToMaddie, and before prices go up on Monday, January 21.

If you still haven’t decided whether or not to attend, we think the speaker list may help influence your decision. And if you’re already going – it’s time to choose your sessions! From national no-kill leaders like Tawny Hammond and Dr. Julie Levy to local no-kill leaders like Ed Jamison and special program leaders like Rebecca Guinn, there’s something (and someone) for everyone.

Among the special program leaders list is our very own Director of Education, Lisa Ward. She’ll be speaking in two sessions, both focused around professional development.

 The first session is Maddie’s® Lifesaving Academy: How Austin is Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders and will be with Jessica Powers, Maddie’s® Director of Education at Austin Pets Alive!. Here you’ll learn everything you need to know about Maddie’s® Apprenticeships and Fellowships, and why it’s important to have places to go for professional development.

“Even if you’re doing well, it’s always good to see what else is out there and how you might make what you’re doing even better,” said Ward. “Professional development is one of the most powerful things we can do for ourselves, and the animals.”

During her second session, Create Leaders from Within: Build a Succession Plan, Ward will be speaking with Ed Jamison, Director, Dallas Animal Services, and Gina Knepp, City of Sacramento’s Animal Care Services Manager at Front Street Animal Shelter.

Ward explains that Knepp and Jamison will share their personal stories about how they got to where they are, and then she will be talking about finding the leader within you.

“This session is for anyone and everyone, not just those who hold current leadership positions. No matter what your role is, you can do it with some kind of leadership,” said Ward.

Ready to take your professional development to the next level for yourself and the animals? Register for the conference today!