2026 Southeast Institute Recap

Southeast Institute has wrapped in Athens, Georgia, and even though it was earlier this summer, we are not letting this one go by without a proper recap. From an eyeglass cleaner at a swag table that launched an entire IOM journey, to industry consultations that helped a community navigate the loss of a 200-year-old employer, to a message from a former attendee (received just an hour before we hit record) who walked back into the real world, applied what she learned in the classroom, and closed the largest sponsorship deal her chamber had ever seen, this episode has it all. IOM Staff member and host Cici sits down with two brand-new IOM graduates, the Southeast Board of Regents chair, and a first-time faculty member to recap the week, reflect on four-year journeys, and make the case for why Institute is unlike any other professional development program out there. We cover the highlights, the takeaways, the deep relationships, and yes — the Southeast culture that is loud, proud, and life-changing.  If you're on the fence, just starting your journey, or already a proud IOM grad, this one's for you. *Host*: Cici Francisco, IOM, CDP Guests: Paige Hutto, IOM; CEO, Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama; 2026 Southeast Board of Regents Chair Eric Sichau, IOM; President & CEO, Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce; 2026 Southeast Institute Graduate Mike Throne, IOM; President & CEO, Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce; 2026 Southeast Institute Graduate Nicole Bianchi; CSP; Global Keynote Speaker | Executive Coach | Best Selling Author; New Faculty If you like what you heard and want to get some more, subscribe to the podcast wherever you get them. Also, come to Institute and meet more chamber/association/ nonprofit professionals.  You can find more information about Institute at our website: https://institute.uschamber.com/http:... If you have any questions, please email us at mailto:iom@uschamber.com. Socials: Facebook:   / iomeducates   Instagram:   / iomeducates   LinkedIn:   / institute-for-organization-management