As I progressed through the planning stages of assuming the role of President, I was asked a simple question: “What will be your walk-up song, Terry?”
Wow, this prompted me to pause and reflect as I prepared to embark on this journey with such an amazing organization.
So, this is where I landed. A walk-up song should be purposefully bold and forward-moving, something that says we choose this work, and it matters. That’s why I’m inspired by the spirit of “We’re All in this Together” from High School Musical. Not because it’s nostalgic or familiar, but because it captures something deeply true about what we do.
We don’t do this work alone.
Every day, in every community we serve, progress depends on people showing up for one another. Different roles, different perspectives, different challenges – but shared purpose. When one of us steps forward, we all move forward. When one community finds a solution, we all learn from it. That’s the power of being connected, not just as professionals, but as partners.
The lyrics remind us that everyone is special in their own way. And in this profession, that couldn’t be more important.
Each of you brings something distinct: experience, creativity, resilience, courage. And it’s not about standing out for the sake of recognition; it’s about showing up fully so that together, we can meet the moment in front of us.
Because the moment is here.
Our communities are asking more of us than ever before. They’re asking for trust, for innovation, for leadership that listens and acts. And the truth is, no single person has all the answers. But together, we have something stronger: collective insight, shared commitment, and the willingness to keep moving forward, even when the path seems impossible.
We’re all in this together, but that doesn’t mean it’s simple. It means it’s shared.
It means we celebrate wins together, and we carry challenges together. It means we lean on each other, learn from each other, and hold each other accountable to the highest standards of public service. It means we recognize that the work matters, not just because of what we accomplish, but because of whom we serve.
As I step into the role of President for the Florida City and County Management Association, I do so with a clear belief: our strength is not just in what we know, but in how we connect. How we collaborate. How we lead with purpose. FCCMA represents the very best of local government leadership – a network of dedicated professionals committed to supporting one another, sharing knowledge, and investing in the next generation of leaders.
Here we are not isolated in our challenges or alone in our responsibilities. We are part of something bigger.
Together through FCCMA, we stand proud of the work we do. Proud of the communities we serve. Proud of the difference we make and proud of the strength we find together through FCCMA.
So, let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep choosing this work. Let’s keep supporting one another, and let’s keep moving forward together.
We’re ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.
Terry
