The Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program (SPoNPP) runs concurrently with CIC’s New Presidents Program in advance of the Presidents Institute. The vision of the Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program is for participants to:
Enhance their understanding of the role of presidential spouse or partner
Engage in fellowship with others serving in the same role
Acquire tools for success in the role
This program provides a supportive, intimate, and confidential environment for participants as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of their new role. A small team of experienced presidential spouses leads the group through a comprehensive exploration of the spouse and partner role and helps each participant understand how he or she can serve in that role most effectively and with personal fulfillment. Participants have the option to connect with experienced mentor/buddy volunteers who can offer ongoing advice, support, and encouragement.
Participants in the Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program are strongly encouraged to register also for the Spouses and Partners Program offered during the Presidents Institute January 4–7. While the SPoNPP explores the nature of the spouse and partner role and how each individual fills that role, the Spouses and Partners Program offered during the Presidents Institute addresses a wider variety of topics, many more practically oriented.
“CIC’s Program for Spouses and Partners of New Presidents fundamentally changed how I see my role. As a spouse with a demanding career, I believed that my role was very limited, but the program allowed me to identify specific areas where I could bring value and contribute to my partner’s success. I left the program not just with more information, but also a set of specific objectives and a network of resources to help me succeed.”
David Colquhoun, Presidential Spouse, McDaniel College (MD); Biologics/Advanced Workflows Specialist, Mid-Atlantic and Tristate Regions
Session Topics for Spouses and Partners of New Presidents
Day 1: Exploration
Welcome and Roadmap
Making Connections
Great Expectations: A Dramatic Tour de Force
Rolling with the Roles: Current Perceptions
What Do I Make of My Role and How Do I Manage It: Exploring Expectations
The Gender Factor
Sharing Stories
Day 2: Evolution
Navigating Change with Resiliency
The Matrix: Applying Interests and Abilities Effectively
Moving Forward: Plan for Success
Sharing Takeaways
Closing Activities
Reflections on the Program
Mentor Mixer
Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program Teaching Team
Connie Holoman, Senior Advisor, CIC Presidential Spouses and Partners Program; and Presidential Spouse, Centenary College of Louisiana
Lynne C. Joyce, First Lady Emerita, Brevard College (NC), and Owner, Leadership First Co., LLC
Randy Richardson, Presidential Spouse and Director of Speech & Debate and Lecturer in the School of Communication, Westminster College (PA)
Myra Williams, Presidential Spouse, Hampton University (VA)
Hotel Information
The Diplomat Beach Resort provides a beachfront location that extends from the Atlantic Ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway. The hotel features bright guest rooms, two beachfront pools, including an infinity pool, and an ultramodern spa. The hotel also includes ten restaurants, two of which are celebrity chef-owned, and state-of-the-art fitness and entertainment areas. Additional features are beach and waterfront activities, such as fishing and jet skiing, off-property golf and tennis, as well as a Kids Club. Guests can explore the area by taking the Sun Shuttle, operated by Circuit.
Location: Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood, FL.
Hotel room rate: $279 single/double per night (includes Wi-Fi and complimentary fitness center use)
