ASA's 2008 Appraisal Conference

ASA is soon to host their 2008 International Appraisal Conference in Minneapolis, MN, August 3rd-6th. In addition to the regularly schedule program and seminars, this year ASA is offering a new Mentor/Protégé Program. According to the ASA website, "Having a mentor is a key element to becoming a great leader, and being a leader means you have experience and expertise that can help others succeed."

The ASA site continues "The Mentor / Protégé Program is designed to bring together veteran appraisers with first-time annual conference attendees, candidates, applicants and nonmembers for a unique and dynamic learning experience. Its objective is to welcome first-time attendees and new members to the annual conference by having a seasoned attendee introduce them to members during networking events and answer questions they may have about ASA and the profession in general."

The program also includes a Mentor / Protégé Presidents reception. This program certainly seems to have much merit and other appraisal organizations would be wise to copy elements of the program. The more new appraisers are educated and exposed to inspecting, evaluating and appraising, the stronger and more professional the personal property appraising field will become. I always felt it is the responsibility of senior and experienced appraisers to assist and mentor those entering the field. By mentoring, it will only add to the professionalism within the industry. Remember, a rising tide lifts all boats.

The conference also has many interesting seminars, including several expert witness and courtroom presentations, Russian Art, Visual Rights Act, appraising Oriental Rugs, "Protecting yourself from Attorneys", Appraising for the Government, Appraisal Issues: Authenticity, Condition and Valuation, and several very interesting tours.

For more information visit the ASA conference page, CLICK HERE