2019 INA Conference Recap
By INA 2019 Nanny of the Year, Heidi Joline
During the days of March 21-24, 2019, members of the International Nanny Association (INA), their guests, vendors, and speakers enjoyed the warm and vibrant hospitality of New Orleans, LA for the 34th Annual INA conference. The Jung Hotel and Residences, located near the French Quarter, was steps away from a streetcar that would bring you down Canal Street and into the heart of the music, restaurants and the mighty Mississippi. Nannies, NCS, Mannies, Educators, Agencies, and Presenters could pass a good time* while still enjoying every session the conference had to offer.
This year’s conference was anything but lagniappe*, opening with Keynote speaker, Francis Cole Jones. Francis had everyone in the hall discovering their inner-self and putting their best self out first, whether in interviews, on a stage or just in a conversion. She had us thinking “What is our egg?” and repeating calming words of “I See, I Hear, I Feel, I Smell”. Francis really brought the 2019 conference theme of Elevate to the surface.
A new virtual conference was offered this year so attendees could get to enjoy the speakers and presenters from the comfort of their living rooms. What a great way to get the wonderful educational sessions. While attendees were definitely missed, it is a great opportunity for those unable to attend in person.
This year’s Nanny of the Year winner was Heidi Joline. Heidi is currently living in Los Angeles, CA. Heidi has been working with children for 20 years, including live in, live out and travel nanny positions. Heidi Is a credential INA member and an NCS as well. Heidi loves to continue her education by taking baby and childcare classes and trainings.
The 2019 Meritorious Service Award was awarded to Judi Merlin. Judi was a founding member of the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies (APNA) and she also founded “A Friend of the Family” running for 30 years later before retiring in 2014. Judi received APNA’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. Judi dedicated her life not only to her love of her work but to her family. Judi had four children and seven grandchildren. In early 2018 Judi was struck by a car and passed away. But her memories are still going strong with her family creating I Stop For Pedestrians magnets, turning a tragedy into a positive message of love.
The 2019 Harriette Grant Service Pins were awarded to nine nannies this year. The service years ranging from 5 years all the way to 40 years of service. Yes, you read that right, for the first time ever, a 40-year INA service pin was given out.
With a location close to the heart of the French Quarter, the hotel made it easy for attendees to continue the bonding, unity, and interactions over local food and music. Optional group dinners allowed some Fais Do Do* after spending the day learning as much as possible.
“The 34th INA conference was a great success with high attendance. It was exhilarating to learn new industry tips, watch Heidi win Nanny of The Year and spend time with industry friends”. Ryan Jordan, Educated Nannies – Los Angeles CA
“I speak at or attend a dozen conferences a year and a few are as well organized as the 2019 INA conference. As both a member and a sponsor, the advance communication from the conference coordinator was excellent. The sessions I attended-particularly the keynote-were practical and informative. And the coordination of the voluntary after-hours activities is a great idea that more conferences should adopt.” Mike Coffey, Imperative Information Services
“As a local, I was so happy that the conference was here in Louisiana. I was happy that we could share our culture, food, and pure hospitality with the INA. As an INA member, I was thrilled to have the presence of all these professional nannies, agencies and newborn care specialists present in my state. It really helps the local market have something to aspire to” Nicole Balak, first-time attendee
“Coming to the INA was a humbling experience if there is one word to describe what I felt being surrounded by women and men creating changes in the industry, GRATEFUL!!” Maria Zamora
Next year is the 35th Annual INA conference. Every five years the INA conference is held outside of the United States. The 2020 INA conference will be held in the lovely and beautiful city of Montreal. You definitely don’t want to miss out, so keep watching for when dates will be announced. Conference days are TBD at this time of publication.
So, while we close out this year’s 34th INA conference, remember the local saying of Laissez les bon temps rouler*. While we all part on our own ways with hearts and minds full; our thoughts thinking of the next year. We all need to remember the two words that were repeated all throughout the conference – Elevate and Unity. Elevate yourself and others; your dreams and goals. Unify your community – those online and in person. And really those words go hand in hand. In order to elevate (one’s self or others) you must have unity and in order to have unity, we all must elevate. Safe travels to all!
Local Translations
*pass a good time = have a good time
*Lagniappe (Lan-Yap) = a little extra
*Fais Do Do (Fay Dough Dough) = Cajun dance party; lots of food and music
*Laissez les bon temp rouler = Let the good times roll