The Advanced Continuing Education track provides the Association’s top level of graduates with a pathway to stay current on the latest issues in local government. This track is self-directed for mayors and councilmembers who seek to continually work toward being the best public servant for their cities and towns. These courses focus on current topics and will be available exclusively to Advanced MEO Institute graduates.
Two three-hour, Advanced Continuing Education classes are offered with each advanced training session held in February and October. Advanced Institute graduates have the option of attending either a three-hour morning or afternoon session or attending both, completing a six-hour day of training.
The deadline to register is October 5.
Advanced Continuing Education Fall Session Wednesday, October 14, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 9 a.m. – Noon Making Decisions with Integrity: If It Was Easy, Everyone Would Do It.
- Noon – 1:00 p.m. Lunch
- 1:00 – 1:45 p.m. How are SC Municipalities Engaging with their Residents through Citizen Academies?
Inspiring civic leadership: Engaging Residents in Leadership Academies If you are ready to engage with your residents on a deeper level, this session is for you! Civic Leadership Academies educate, connect, and inspire leaders to develop a strong commitment to community service for the greater good of cities.
- 2:00 – 2:45 p.m. Grants 101
Identifying, preparing, and securing federal, state and local grant funding can be a challenge for communities of all sizes. In this session, participants will get an overview of key funding opportunities that assist in addressing community needs.
- 3:00 – 3:45 p.m. Making the Most of Your Community Festival or Event
Community festivals and events bring people together, strengthen community identity, and support local businesses. Successful events require careful planning, strong partnerships, effective marketing, and attention to logistics. This presentation will highlight the key steps in developing and managing a successful community event.