OCI's annual conference provides you with some of the timeliest and applicable information you will find at any conference or training. It is also a wonderful time to get new information and ideas, be inspired by success stories and network with other community champions from across the state.
Here is what a few participants have said about OCI's annual conference:
I was struck by the extraordinary talent in the room and the role that Oklahoma Community Institute (OCI) is playing in that state. Not only a technical assistance provider, OCI is the catalyst for change—helping communities think about the future in new ways. Established in 1995, the Institute leads with an asset approach and focuses on four areas: the annual conference, the Oklahoma Citizens Academy, strategic community planning, and local leadership program support. They know, as we do, that meaningful change will come from local communities and the citizens who live there. The seven principles of Smart Communities played well in Oklahoma because they are already advocating for these approaches through OCI. I would encourage you to take a look at their website, especially the way they do their work. We need an OCI in every state to remind us that strengthening communities is the key to economic and civic life.
Dr. Suzanne Morse
Executive Director
Pew Partnership for Civic Change
Attending my first OCI conference precipitated tremendous change in our community. I credit OCI for introducing me to the right people that led to our new downtown cityscape and the renovation of our 1939 WPA bathhouse and pool. That renovation prompted the Discover Oklahoma team to list Pawnee's Bathhouse as their favorite summer destination.
Annetta Franks
City Clerk, business owner and community volunteer
Pawnee
"The OCI Conference is a great place to access the resources and information you need to help your community."
Jerry Johnston
Mayor
Braman
“The OCI conference has the best information for the small town, rural community leaders.”
Melyn Johnson
Community Development Director
City of Guymon
"In the event you and/or your community is able only to accommodate a single event per year, THIS is the optimum choice...THIS is where to invest your money and time. Truly this is a conference from which I have consistently walked away not ready to leave because I want to learn more, but I can't wait to go because I am anxious to implement."
James Leonard
Economic Development Director
City of Buffalo
Phone: 405/208-8882
Fax: 405/208-8885
E-mail: okcom@ocionline.org