Wearing Many Hats: Highlights from the 17th Annual California Community Colleges Purchasing Conference
The 17th Annual California Community Colleges Purchasing Conference, organized by the Foundation for California Community Colleges CollegeBuys program, recently occurred in San Diego from April 14-16. Procurement professionals from across the state convened under the dynamic theme of “Wearing Many Hats: Driving Success through Versatility,” a testament to the expanding role of procurement as a strategic powerhouse within higher education.
During the three-day event, attendees participated in workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, fostering an environment for learning, collaboration, and innovation. A definite highlight was the keynote address by Tammy Rimes, Executive Director at National Cooperative Procurement Partners, who blended humor and insight while sharing valuable strategies for cultivating a strong personal brand.
The conference took a deep dive into key issues shaping procurement today. Participants explored the expanding influence of procurement leaders, navigated the complexities of facility agreements, professional certifications, analyzed real-world workflow case studies, and discovered pathways to stronger cross-departmental synergy. Crucial sessions also equipped attendees with practical time management techniques, insights into current workforce trends, effective travel management strategies, best practices in contracting, and essential legal updates. The experience was further enriched by the expertise shared by distinguished speakers from organizations such as Tao Rossini, APC, Public Agency Law Group, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore, NewLeaf Training and Development, Center for Procurement Excellence, School Services of California, Inc., Huron Consulting Group, Bank of America, and F3 Law.
Beyond the informative sessions, the conference fostered a vibrant atmosphere for connection and camaraderie. From the moment attendees arrived before the conference began, a welcoming bonfire crackled along the Catamaran hotel’s beachside, setting a relaxed tone. The first day culminated in a wonderful opening reception at the Flamingo Deck, where light bites and drinks fueled engaging conversations. Tuesday offered a delightful midday break with a casual Lunch on the Beach, followed by a prize and award-filled Networking Reception. As the day drew to a close, attendees unwound and enjoyed dinner at a relaxing Sunset Social. These events provided invaluable spaces for attendees to forge relationships and build a stronger sense of community.
The conference also shined a spotlight on outstanding achievements within the procurement community, celebrating both individual excellence and institutional leadership through prestigious awards:
Procurement Professionals of the Year Awards:
- Teri Turner: Purchasing Manager at Sierra Joint Community College District (Northern region)
- Kim Simonds: Purchasing Supervisor at MiraCosta Community College District (Southern region)
Green Awards:
- Amazon Business Awardee: MiraCosta Community College District
- Grainger Awardee: Foothill-De Anza Community College District
- ODP Business Solutions Awardee: Riverside Community College District
- Waxie Awardee: Southwestern Community College District
These Green Awards recognized the recipients as industry leaders in sustainable procurement practices for their respective suppliers.
The CollegeBuys team extends its sincere appreciation to all the enthusiastic participants, knowledgeable speakers, and deserving award recipients who contributed to the conference’s resounding success. Your dedication to elevating procurement excellence within California’s community colleges and your commitment to embracing versatility are truly valued and instrumental in driving the field forward.
