Good Government is the key to creating a community of lasting value for all residents. The Good Government Initiative at the University of Miami provides leadership training opportunities for elected officials to get that education. From late August to November each year, we offer a certificate program for elected officials who receive more than 60 hours of training in the nuts and bolts of government in South Florida. In addition, we offer an all-day workshop for citizens who are considering a run for office on a periodic basis. We also offer a popular Thinking About Running? workshop for prospective candidates and those who are in the process of deciding if it's the right move for them. Sponsored by Bilzin Sumberg law firm, the all-day program focuses on leaving a legacy, testing the waters, examining the values of true public service and getting ready to launch. Presenters include seasoned elected officials past and present, along with campaign professionals. Our next workshop will be held October 4. The Initiative also sponsors a variety of events to bring together elected officials and the public to consider issues important to governance in our community. Among these are our Community Conversations, around a luncheon or breakfast, to discuss the issues South Floridians care about. They are open to the public by reservation only for a reasonable charge and are limited to the first 100 who sign up. Other workshops for the community at large as well as for elected officials will be announced as they unfold.

The mission of the Good Government Initiative is to cultivate leaders of excellence in South Florida through the development and training of elected officials as well as those aspiring to run for office, and to engage the community in its governance through outreach and education.