As the Fund turns 40 in 2026, we’re connecting with donors—both individuals and organizations—about why they give, their hopes for the future of the profession, and how the Fund can support that vision. This month, we spoke with Dan Johnson, past president of the Texas City Management Association (TCMA), ICMA and TCMA life member, and TCMA distinguished member.

Why is it important to you that your state association supports the Fund?

The emergence of the reform-based council–manager plan of local governance and administration was a national movement. Texas was active in this effort from its beginning and has been a shining example of the positive impacts of effective professional local government management. Texas city management is part of an international professional community, and like other professions, we are reputationally connected by title and duty.

TCMA once explored and established a short-lived state foundation but soon realized that the care and administration of such an operation were not well suited to a state-level association’s staffing structure. The remaining TCMA foundation balance was contributed to the ICMA Foundation/Fund.

All governance institutions are likely to be challenged at some point, often by non-local actors using non-local examples and rationales. Such challenges may include data-driven arguments requiring thoughtful, research-based responses. They are also likely to be well-funded and amplified through “borderless” social media and national media channels. A nationwide ICMA Foundation, with dedicated staff resources, is far better positioned to administer funds and direct spending for effective advocacy and educational purposes.

How do you see ICMA’s advocacy role evolving given the challenges of public awareness?

I strongly support a sustained research and data-gathering effort to quantify the value proposition of the council–manager plan. We must be able to demonstrate that professionally managed cities deliver superior service and outcomes compared to other forms of local governance. Metrics such as bond ratings, ACFR recognitions, ISO fire ratings, infrastructure quality indices, and similar indicators should be gathered, studied, and regularly updated to validate that communities benefit from professional management. Continued and visible partnership with the National Civic League (NCL) is important to ensure the NCL remains viable and continues its support for the council–manager plan through the model charter program.

What impact do you believe the Fund has had on communities that adopted or retained the council–manager plan?

I read retrospective accounts showing the ICMA Fund’s support playing a strategic role in helping communities adopt or sustain professional management structures. The Life, Well Run campaign’s content is a great example of good messaging: well-prepared with simple examples and narrative to explain the role of the professional manager, the delivery of local government services, and ICMA. I often use a summation of the video script’s key messages:

• How to “help elected officials translate policy and vision into results.”

• Unity of authority, not divided gridlock.

• Professionalism/formal training.

• Continuity through election cycles.

• Objectivity.

• Separates policy and administration(for the most part).

What would you say to someone considering a donation to the Fund but unsure of its impact?

Many of us begin our public administration careers in a “consuming” mode—using the resources, associations, institutional structures, and networks already in place to jump-start our professional development. That is entirely appropriate and a true benefit.

But how are these systems sustained? Through membership, yes—but more deeply through investment of time and resources. These efforts move us from “consumer” to “contributor.” The ICMA Future of Professional Management Fund is uniquely positioned to augment our professional association. The Fund amplifies individual contributions and becomes a true “force multiplier”:

Financially — It amplifies contributions through sound investment and fiscal stewardship.

Emotionally — It fosters a sense of unity around a common purpose and provides affirmation and gratitude.

Strategically — Funds are directed toward research, education, and initiatives designed for maximum impact.

Becoming a contributor is an act of institutional stewardship—an authentic way of “paying it forward” so that future professionals will have the same opportunities and support that you received. It is a sustaining, mature act and a practice of personal and professional stewardship. Supporting the ICMA Future of Professional Management Fund is one such contribution.