Dear Members of the Utah Chapter of NIGP,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead for our chapter and our profession. Reflecting on the past year, I am immensely proud of the progress we have made as a community of procurement professionals. Together, we have continued to elevate the standards of public procurement, foster collaboration, and embrace innovation in our field.

This year, our chapter’s theme is “Building Bridges, Driving Impact.” We will focus on strengthening connections—between members, organizations, and the communities we serve—while emphasizing the value of impactful procurement practices.

What to Look Forward to in 2025

Here are some of the key initiatives and events we are excited to bring to you this year:

         1. Professional Development Opportunities
             We will continue to offer a robust schedule of continuing education both in person and webinars. Look out for expanded                   offerings that will be presented at the March 20th, 2025 chapter meeting that align with the latest trends and challenges                 in government procurement.

          2. Networking and Collaboration
             Our chapter events, including quarterly meetings and the possibility of annual conference, or golf tournament are being                    considered and designed to foster meaningful connections among our members. Collaboration is key to our success,                    and we aim to create spaces where ideas and solutions can be shared. More to come on chapter meeting changes……. 

         3. Advocacy, Outreach and Committees
            This year, we will amplify our efforts to advocate for ethical and efficient procurement practices within our work                                communities! We are committed to showcasing the vital role public procurement plays in advancing transparency, equity,                and economic development.

         4. Celebrating Excellence
             We will continue to recognize the outstanding achievements of our members and your entities through awards and                         spotlights. Your dedication to the profession inspires us all.  PLEASE share your successes with our Awards Committee                 Chair: Tonya Hodges and or Board Support: Bart Winward.

2024 Award Reminder: We need your (MOY) Manager of the Year, (BOY) Procurement Professional of the year, and Agency of the Year NOMINATIONS for 2024. These will be presented at our March 2025 Meeting and will be presented to NIGP for National Honors this year! Please Email Tonya or Bart for the 2024 Form!

Download forms here: 

Manager of the Year
Procurement Specialist of the Year
Agency Award
Young Professionals Award

A Call to Action
As we embark on this journey together, I encourage each of you to get involved in chapter activities. Whether it’s attending an event, joining a committee, or mentoring a colleague, your participation enriches our community. Let’s make 2025 a year of shared growth, learning, and success.

Thank you for your continued commitment to the Utah Chapter of NIGP. I am honored to serve as your president and look forward to working alongside all of you to achieve our goals.
 
Here’s to a year filled with innovation, collaboration, CEU, mental health awareness and FUN!


Warm regards,
Polly Alles
President, Utah Chapter NIGP

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