Really, there's not much opportunity for folks in Middle Georgia. There's online programs, but that doesn't provide hands-on learning. Anytime you don't have face-to-face interaction, you lose quality.

A lot of (education) folks are retiring. Some folks (who) get into leadership positions are dealing with lots of paperwork, and because of the hassles they face, some choose to get out.

Over the last three years, we've received numerous inquiries about whether Mercer would develop a doctoral program. Now that word is trickling out, we've gotten numerous responses and high levels of interest.

I'm not proud of how we played, but I do see this as a learning opportunity,

Anytime there's an opportunity for cross-training and learning something, learn it. Learning beyond their job responsibilities is key for meeting planners.

This is something that could be a real learning opportunity. It is very complementary.