SUMA Mayors' Summer School

August 21 and 22, 2025 I University of Regina and online

Thank you to everyone who attended SUMA's 2025 Mayors' Summer School!

We were proud to present five education sessions from leaders in the field of Governance:

  • Charlie Clark - former mayor of Saskatoon (Dynamics of Municpal Leadership)

    • This session highlighted dynamics of municipal leadership in today’s political environment focusing on challenges that test the relationship between elected councils - professional administrators - and an increasingly volatile public.

  • Ian McCormack – Strategic Steps (UN)Civility in the Muncipal Sector)

    • This session explored how mayors can respond to public abuse while fostering respectful, effective leadership. Participants gained practical strategies to support civility in governance and strengthen community trust.

  • Tim DuHamel – Bloom Centre for Municipal Education (Good Governance  - Best Practices for Mayors)

    • This session offered a practical guide to governance excellence for mayors, highlighting proven strategies for effective leadership, transparent decision-making, and community engagement. Participants explored tools for navigating complex challenges, building trust, and driving impactful policy, equipping mayors with the confidence and integrity to lead in today’s dynamic municipal landscape.

  • Brownlee LLP (Conflict of Interest)

    • This session equipped mayors with the tools to identify, manage, and avoid conflicts of interest in public office. Participants navigated how to uphold transparency, maintain public trust, and make ethical decisions when personal interests intersect with official duties. 

  • Regional Cooperation – Q & A with SUMA CEO Jean-Marc Nadeau and Rosthern mayor Dennis Helmuth 

    • This session explored the Twin Rivers District’s approach to regional cooperation and how collaboration among municipalities has strengthened local governance. Participants learned about the strategies used to manage conflict, the role of mayors in fostering unity, and the tangible benefits of working together across municipal boundaries.

 

 

Attendees also learned about the role of the Ombudsman, and how the Municipal Peer Network, Kinetic GPO, and SUMA can assist them.

In person attendees also heard from Mayor Bruce Fiddler (Northern town of Creighton) during the special evening event. Mayor Creighton's presentation, entitled Burning Challenges, Resilient Communities addressed the 2025 forest fire season and the challenges faced by northern communities.

 

 

WHY ATTEND

Networking

There are plenty of people to meet and opportunities to network at SUMA Mayors' Summer School. Building on themomentum of the 2025 SUMA Convention, SUMA Mayors' Summer School will provide you with the chance to connect with fellow elected officials.  
Capacity Building

We know "summer school" doesn't sound exciting, but SUMA Mayors' Summer School will be! Learn from intriguing speakers and participate in exercises that will strengthen your ability to be an effective community leader. 

WHAT'S ON THE AGENDA

SUMA Mayors' Summer School is set to include engaging discussions, interactive classes, and a special reception and dinner at the Cure Kitchen and Bar (in person participants only). 

Sessions confirmed on the agenda include:

  • Dynamics of Municipal Leadership - Presented by Charlie Clark, Former Mayor of Saskatoon

  • Conflict of Interest for Mayors

  • (UN)Civility - Presented by Ian McCormack, Strategic Steps Inc.

  • Information on SUMA, the Municipal Peer Network, and the Municipal Leadership Development Program

  • Governance Best Practices for Mayors

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration for SUMA Mayors' Summer School is now closed.

 

SUMA Mayors' Summer School is sponsored by: