Podcast Summary: School Business Insider – "Discovering a Sea of Knowledge: Inside MD ASBO's Spring Conference"
Introduction
In the May 20, 2025 episode of School Business Insider, host John Brucato delves into the vibrant environment of the Maryland Association of School Business Officials (MD ASBO) during their 71st annual Spring Conference, aptly themed "Discovering a Sea of Knowledge." Joining Brucato are Jeff LaPorta, Executive Director of Maryland ASBO, and Libby Hillard, a School Business Administrator and the incoming Vice President of Maryland ASBO. The episode provides an insightful behind-the-scenes look at the conference's planning, execution, and its significance to school business professionals.
Planning the Conference
Jeff LaPorta opens the discussion by highlighting the extensive effort involved in organizing such a large-scale event. Starting the planning process immediately after the fall conference in November, the team dedicates approximately six months to ensure the Spring Conference's success.
Notable Quote:
“[...] it’s a very large event, it’s very laborious to do, but extremely rewarding at the same time. [...] people like me and Libby and our board and our committee chairs are all working behind the scenes to make sure that there’s an event for them to come to that year.” – Jeff LaPorta [01:39]
The conference spans two full days, with attendance surpassing the previous year. LaPorta emphasizes the meticulous coordination required, from soliciting educational session proposals to managing a roster of over 200 exhibitors.
The Conference Theme: A Sea of Knowledge
The theme "Discovering a Sea of Knowledge" was inspired by the Arizona ASBO conference, where LaPorta witnessed an exceptional execution of the theme through decorations and interactive elements. This inspired Maryland ASBO to adopt a similar approach, encouraging exhibitors to decorate their booths accordingly.
Notable Quote:
“We decided to forego that half day session this year just so we could fit some other things in.” – Jeff LaPorta [02:49]
A creative initiative involved engaging local elementary students to design sea creature decorations for exhibitor booths, fostering community involvement and enhancing the thematic ambiance.
Notable Quote:
“We have student made decorations of sea creatures and fish and mermaids and all kinds of things like that.” – Jeff LaPorta [07:09]
Behind the Scenes: Execution and Logistics
LaPorta provides a comprehensive overview of the logistical efforts underpinning the conference. From planning educational sessions across diverse domains—finance, facilities, food safety, and more—to ensuring engaging activities like live bands and cornhole tournaments, the team strives to cater to a wide array of interests.
Notable Quote:
“A three day event takes about six months worth of planning and it really doesn’t seem like it should, but it does.” – Jeff LaPorta [08:03]
He underscores the importance of continuous improvement and innovation, noting the transition to online courses to accommodate attendees' schedules and geographic spread.
Professional Development and Personal Growth
Libby Hillard passionately discusses the critical role of professional development conferences in fostering networking, knowledge sharing, and personal growth among school business officials. She highlights how ASBO conferences break down silos, allowing professionals from various departments—finance, facilities, food service—to collaborate and learn from one another.
Notable Quote:
“The cycle of continuous improvement is what I think makes Maryland ASBO incredible.” – Libby Hillard [13:43]
Jeff adds that the conference not only facilitates professional learning but also personal development opportunities, such as leadership and integrity workshops, which are universally beneficial regardless of one's departmental focus.
Notable Quote:
“How do I set myself up for a promotion where I work, all those types of things.” – Jeff LaPorta [15:23]
Encouraging Participation and Sharing
The conversation shifts to strategies for encouraging more school business officials to participate actively, present, and share their experiences. Both LaPorta and Hillard emphasize mentorship, creating comfortable environments for presenters, and showcasing the tangible benefits of participation.
Notable Quote:
“Take a chance, get involved, take a risk. [...] This is a very welcoming organization.” – Libby Hillard [27:40]
They discuss the challenges of engaging veteran professionals and the importance of developing more advanced and in-depth sessions to meet their needs.
Notable Quote:
“Some of our sessions, you know, might be more considered 101 or 200 level. [...] People want more in-depth educational sessions.” – Jeff LaPorta [19:53]
Future Plans and Innovations
Looking ahead, LaPorta shares exciting developments aimed at enhancing accessibility and content delivery. Plans to migrate foundational courses to online platforms are underway, allowing greater flexibility for attendees. Additionally, the success of introducing live bands this year has paved the way for incorporating musical elements in future conferences.
Notable Quote:
“We are just starting to migrate those to online and on demand. So the first one that is in the works right now and being done is in the hands.” – Jeff LaPorta [26:22]
Hillard outlines her aspirations as the incoming Vice President, focusing on strengthening the integration between capital and operating budgets and fostering innovative collaborations within ASBO.
Notable Quote:
“To get that in, to get more involved, and really to take any opportunity.” – Libby Hillard [23:50]
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, both LaPorta and Hillard encourage attendees to actively participate, network, and celebrate their achievements through awards and recognitions. Their commitment to continuous improvement and community building underscores the conference's pivotal role in the professional lives of Maryland's school business officials.
Notable Quotes:
“Participate in those, apply for those awards.” – Jeff LaPorta [28:04]
“This is a very welcoming organization. It will a difference in your career and I think it can help you make a difference in your school system.” – Libby Hillard [27:40]
John Brucato wraps up the episode by commending the organizers for an outstanding conference, emphasizing the invaluable content and the strong sense of community fostered among attendees.
Conclusion
The Spring Conference of MD ASBO emerges as a cornerstone event for school business professionals, offering a blend of professional development, personal growth, and community engagement. Through meticulous planning, innovative themes, and a focus on inclusivity, Maryland ASBO continues to set a high standard for industry conferences, empowering its members to excel in their roles and drive positive change within their educational institutions.