Descriptions of Sections, Working Groups and Committees
Differences
NAPPA sections are standing groups intended to have a long-term existence that are open to all NAPPA members and meet at least annually, usually at the mid-winter meetings. Working groups are intended to be in existence for no more than a couple of years or for the life of a specific project, meet at the discretion of the chair and may be either open to all NAPPA members or limited to invited or qualified members. Sections focus on areas of broad interest to NAPPA members and may only be created or abolished by action of the Executive Board, while working groups are typically more limited in scope and may be established and disbanded by the President. Like sections, working groups may sponsor meetings open to all members and develop materials for the broader NAPPA membership, but they are not required to do so. The President appoints chairs of sections and working groups and may appoint co-chairs as necessary.
Description of Purpose
Sections and working groups both provide avenues for development and sharing of expertise and knowledge amongst members on matters related to their mandates. They are intended to allow coverage of issues in depth and offer networking opportunities for members with similar interests or responsibilities. Both may bring in experts from outside NAPPA and make specialized resources available. They may undertake special projects or develop materials that enhance the ability of members to serve the needs of their public pension fund clients.
Functions
Sections and working groups provide educational and professional development opportunities for NAPPA members in order to facilitate exchange information, advance knowledge and foster sounds principles, procedures and practices relating to their areas of focus. In that regard, sections and working groups may:
" Arrange speakers and organize presentations, discussions and panels on relevant topics at NAPPA meetings or functions;
" Develop educational materials and make available sample polices, contracts and other resources;
" Provide articles and references for the NAPPA web site and publications;
" Facilitate exchange of information and expertise between members;
" Identify or make available external resources and experts; and
" Seek to enhance the professionalism and capability of NAPPA members to serve their clients' needs.
Current sections have mandates broadly related to the following issue areas:
1. Benefits
2. Fiduciary & Plan Governance
3. Investment
4. Tax
Current working groups have mandates broadly related to the following areas of focus:
1. Insurance Issues
2. Alternative Investements
Mentor Committee Job Description
Function: The Committee attempts to promote a collegial atmosphere of NAPPA and better incorporate new members into the organization by encouraging one-on-one relationships.
The Mentor Committee is consists of one or more members of the Executive Committee and a sufficient number of others to adequately fulfill its functions -- probably six to eight persons. The Committee (1) obtains experienced volunteers and assigns them as mentors to desiring governmental members with less than two years public pension experience; (2) obtains the necessary instructors, works with the Association staff to obtain facilities and provides a New Member Training session on the Tuesday before the Summer Educational Session; (3) provides an evening interactive event at the Winter Section Meeting after the first day's activities; and (4) provides an interactive activity on the night before the first general session at the Summer Educational Conference. |
