Registration open: County Commissioner Midterm Essentials program
Join MSU Extension and the Michigan Association of Counties for a new one-day professional development program designed for county officials.
As the responsibilities and expectations of county governance continue to grow, ongoing professional development for county officials remains essential. Michigan State University Extension, in partnership with the Michigan Association of Counties (MAC), is launching County Commissioner Midterm Essentials, a new one-day professional development program designed specifically for county officials.
County Commissioner Midterm Essentials builds on the foundation of the New Commissioner School program while recognizing the practical lessons learned during a commissioner’s first two years in office. The program is designed to help county officials strengthen their skills, knowledge and networks, and enhance their capacity to lead effectively in today’s complex fiscal and political environment.
The program is being offered twice this year, June 10 in Grayling, and October 7 in East Lansing. Visit our program page for location details and registration information!
Program focus
Participants in County Commissioner Midterm Essentials will:
- Receive an update on the state and county fiscal outlook, including the implications of recent state and federal policy actions.
- Learn best practices for intergovernmental collaboration from experienced county officials who have built and sustained effective partnerships.
- Strengthen skills for effective governance in a challenging political climate.
- Connect and network with peers from across Michigan.
Who should attend
This program is designed for county commissioners, county administrative staff and other elected county officials seeking to deepen their understanding of county governance.
Program details
Dates and locations (10 a.m.–3 p.m.)
- June 10: Grayling
- October 7: East Lansing
Cost
Registration includes lunch, snacks, and program materials.
- $75 per person when registering more than 30 days in advance
- $100 per person within 30 days of the event
Registration
Please visit events.anr.msu.edu/NCSmidterm to register.
Credits
This program counts for two credits in the MAC County Commissioner Academy for 2026.
County Commissioner Midterm Essentials reflects MSU Extension’s commitment to supporting informed, ethical and effective local governance. Through timely information, peer learning and focused skill-building, participants will leave better prepared to navigate fiscal pressures, intergovernmental relationships and the demands of public leadership.