Sessions

Framing our Future: LWVUS New Membership Program

August 15 ~ 12:00 pm
Presenters: Amy Perna, Colleen Feige, Jane Hovland
Review Framing our Future plans then come to learn about the new LWVUS membership model and how LWVMN will be here to help you through in 2025. Attendees will get an overview of the Transformation process and hear about new updates from LWVUS Membership Manager Nora Pullen.

New Member Orientation

August 15 ~ 6:30 pm
Presenters: Amy Perna, Colleen Feige, Jane Hovland
Welcome to the LWVMN New Member Orientation! Whether you're new to our League or just want a refresher, this session is your chance to dive into our vibrant history and discover the exciting work we do. Get ready for a fun and engaging overview of who we are, what drives us, and how you can jump in and make a difference. Join us for an inspiring start to your LWV journey!

2024 Voter Engagement

August 16 ~ 2:00 pm
Presenters: Sam Streukens
Wondering how we plan to engage voters and push back against election misinformation this year? Please join us to learn more about volunteer opportunities across the League. From connecting with high schools to (pre)register young voters to observing the Post-Election Review, we are working together to engage voters and provide trusted election information in our communities in 2024. (SLIDE DECK)

Treasurers 101

August 19 ~ 4:00 pm
Presenters: Bridgit Jordan, Cindy Holker
New to being a treasurer or want to discuss thorny treasurer issues? Join us! Review the schedule for treasurers who are part of our LWVMN 501(c)3 organization as an LLC. Discuss when roster payments and financial reports are due, how to manage communications that might come from the IRS, and best practices in budgeting and bookkeeping. Talk a bit about the new membership process. Get your questions answered to help you be successful in managing your League’s books. (SLIDE DECK)

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Practice

August 19 ~ 5:00 pm
Presenters: Michelle Witte, Shelley Colvin, LWV members
Learn how several local Leagues are putting DEI into practice in their communities. Check out LWVMN and LWVUS resources and best practices on how to best communicate and live out the principles of diversity, equity & inclusion in your local Leagues and communities. Learn how to form partnerships that retain our nonpartisan traditions, while also embracing our DEI principles. Network with other local Leagues who are implementing new DEI and racial justice programs which are also resulting in the growth of new members. (SLIDE DECK)

Communicating about the 2024 Elections

August 21 ~ 11:00 am
Presenters: Sam Streukens, Michelle Witte, Mary Brodd
We will focus on LWVMN resources from social media graphics to sample letters to the editor on the new election law changes and the upcoming election. We will discuss how members and local Leagues can access and utilize these resources, as well as post them on social media and better "boost" and amplify messages on Facebook. If you are involved in advocacy, voter services, or communications work, this is the session for you! (SLIDE DECK)

League Leadership Essentials

August 21 ~ 12:00 pm
Presenters: Michelle Witte, Laura Helmer
Whether you're a new or seasoned LWV leader, this session is for you! Walk through our month-at-a-glance task list for local Leagues and learn how to plan your year successfully. Learn new information, ask questions, and get connected to key resources available from LWVUS and LWVMN to help with your bylaws, policy development, nonpartisanship, DEI, membership, voter service, advocacy and communications. AND – we'll extend our session by 15 minutes for any new Presidents/Leads who might need extra guidance. (SLIDE DECK)

Nonpartisanship in Practice

August 22 ~ 1:00 pm
Presenters: Michelle Witte, Laura Helmer 
How to stay nonpartisan – as individuals, League leaders and League members – is our #1 question, especially during voter service season. Please try and attend this great session designed to give you practical tips and checklists for how to uphold our vital League tradition of nonpartisanship, while also continuing to advocate on our important positions. Leaders can also learn how to update your Local League Board Nonpartisan Policy, so all board members understand their roles and rules that keep LWV strong. (SLIDE DECK)

Drive Views to Your Forums with Google Ads

August 27 ~ 1:00 pm
Presenters: Karen Suzukamo, Mary Brodd
Workshop along with Karen from WBLA as she steps through the process of setting up Google Ads for the 2024 candidate forum season. (This is a followup session to a Zoom meeting that took place on June 4. To see the recording of that session in preparation for this August Academy session, please contact Mary Brodd.)

Dealing with Difficult Situations - Braver Angels E-Courses

Available online; watch at your convenience
Presenters: Braver Angels Professionals
LWVMN is proud to partner with Braver Angels Minnesota in their Reduce the Rancor initiative to restore trust, respect and goodwill in American politics. Braver Angels seeks not to eliminate our differences but rather deal with them head-on -- with respect and understanding -- for the betterment of our communities. In short, they do not try to change people's views on issues, but on how they view the other side. Take one or more of these 40-minute professional e-courses, crafted by experts in communications and depolarization, to learn how to provide an effective and “safe” way to interact with people in different situations.

Check out LWVUS’ 2024 Election Webinar Series here: https://www.lwv.org/2024electionwebinars

Topics will include Media & Rapid Response Messaging, Direct Voter Contact, and Bystander Training & Voter Intimidation. Recordings and supplementary material will be available at the same link.