Illinois Master Academy
Master Complex Duties
An advanced continuing education program.
Master Academy provides education for the Master Municipal Clerk certification which is one of two professional designations granted by IIMC and is an advanced continuing education program that prepares participants to perform complex municipal duties. The program entails extensive, rigorous education with a requirement for professional and social contribution. Candidates must demonstrate that they have actively pursued education and professional activities.
Master Academy at a Glance
Join your fellow clerks for 2.5 days of learning. Registration includes instruction and digital materials specific to the days you attend. Earn up to 22 hours (or 11 points) towards your IIMC-CMC or MMC by attending. Qualifies for points at a rate of 1 point per 2 in-class contact hours.
Dates
October 7-9, 2026
Opening Reception October 6
Tuition
$550 before September 19 ($600 after)
Schedule
Our agenda covers meaningful and relevant topics.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Opening Reception
Join us to learn about resources to help you in your job and to network with other clerks. Refreshments will be served, and prizes will be drawn at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Breakfast will be available for all hotel guests 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Dinner is on your own.
All
7:30-9:00 a.m.
New Laws, Conflicts, & Trends
This clerk-focused session, led by municipal attorney Keri-Lyn Krafthefer, provides a comprehensive update on new laws, legal conflicts and emerging trends directly affecting the duties and responsibilities of municipal clerks in Illinois. From recent legislative changes to evolving best practices, clerks will receive practical guidance on topics such as public records, open meetings, ethics compliance and administrative procedures. Designed to support municipal clerks' knowledge and compliance, this session offers tools to navigate complex legal requirements, addresses potential conflicts and responds to shifting governance expectations with confidence and accuracy.
Master Academy
9:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Latest Advice from Keri-Lynn Krafthefer & Team
Description coming soon
All
12-1 p.m.
Lunch
Master Academy
1-2:45 p.m.
Organizational Management
Strengthen skills in workflow design, policy documentation, staff coordination, and operational efficiency. This session focuses on systems thinking and building resilient administrative processes.
Master Academy
3-5:20 p.m.
Risk Management Strategies for Municipal Leaders
Examine common operational, financial, and reputational risks facing municipalities. Participants will learn how strong policies, documentation practices, and communication protocols help protect the organization and support elected officials.
All
5:30-6 p.m.
Photos
All
6-7:30 p.m.
Annual Meeting
All
7:30-9 p.m.
Networking & Hospitality
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Breakfast will be available for all hotel guests 6 a.m.-10 a.m.
Master Academy
7:30-9:30 a.m.
AI Course - Fundamentals and uses of AI
Develop a practical understanding of artificial intelligence concepts and responsible applications in municipal operations. Participants will explore use cases in drafting, research, workflow automation, and public communication while discussing governance safeguards.
Master Academy
9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Navigating the Grant Landscape
Learn how to identify funding opportunities, understand application requirements, track compliance, and support grant reporting. Clerks will explore how their role contributes to transparency, documentation, and successful grant administration.
All
12-1 p.m.
Lunch
Master Academy
1-4 p.m.
ADA Accessible Documents
Training on creating, publishing, and ensuring all digital municipal documents comply with accessibility standards. Provides practical and applicable guidelines for the DOJ requirements.
All
4:10-5 p.m.
Illinois Municipal League Update
Stay informed on the latest legislative and policy developments impacting municipalities across Illinois. This session, presented by a representative from the Illinois Municipal League, is tailored specifically for municipal clerks and will provide a timely update on state legislation, regulatory changes and key issues affecting local government operations. Participants will gain insights into how recent state actions influence municipal responsibilities, funding, compliance and administrative procedures. The session will also highlight resources available through IML to support the essential work of municipal clerks in navigating ongoing changes in the local government landscape.
All
6-9 p.m.
Banquet
Friday, October 9, 2026
Breakfast will be available for all hotel guests 6-10 a.m.
All
8-10:50 a.m.
Unlock Your Greatness Keynote
Description coming soon
Master Academy
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Academy Roundtable
Book Your Hotel
Make your reservation at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Bloomington, Illinois, by using the custom booking link or by calling (309) 664-6446. The room block deadline for reservations is September 13.
Important Things to Know
Important information to consider before you register for Illinois Master Academy.
Attendance
Participants must attend all sessions and actively engage. Participants who miss 25% or more of a session and/or do not complete the associated assessments will not receive credit for the session.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are permitted until September 20. Cancellations after September 20 receive a 50% refund. All such request for refunds must be submitted in writing to outreachgovt@uwgb.edu on behalf of the MCI Training Institute Committee Chair. No-shows will not receive a refund. It is important to note that numerous contractual obligations are incurred long before the event with financial commitments to expenditures that may not be refundable to the university. If you cancel, you will not receive academy handouts.
Ask an Expert
If you have any questions about the Institute, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.