20 Regional Participants Begin Leadership Northwest Missouri Program
Twenty women and men make up the 2021 class of Leadership Northwest Missouri, an annual series of sessions that bring together existing and emerging leaders from throughout a 19-county region to discover and sharpen their leadership skills, explore regional issues and build a network of contacts throughout Northwest Missouri.
COVID-19 continues to throw curve balls at leadership programs all over the country. We believe it is important for our program to Model the Way by creating an exceptional experience while also following current safety guidelines and allowing for a level playing field for all participants, so the 2021 class began with a two-day virtual retreat, January 20 and 21 instead of meeting in person. The participants will continue to gather monthly for day-long sessions either virtually or in varied locations throughout the region. The series concludes with a July 15th graduation celebration in Caldwell County.
Members of the 2021 class and the counties they represent are: Jennifer Jarvis, Andrew County; Megan Atha, Becky Kendrick, Buchanan County; Lesley Delaney, Kate Lyons, Carroll County; Kyle Pittman, Clinton County; Jake Forsythe, Daviess County; Tammy Sparks, Gentry County; Melissa King, Shane Lynch, Jenna Stevens, Grundy County; Katelyn Addison, Harrison County; David Lucas, Holt County; Tiffany Berndt, Marcia Cox, Mercer County; Brooke Byland, Samantha Cole, Dr. Bob Machovsky, Heather Shumake, Mike Stolte, Nodaway County.
Leadership Northwest Missouri has become the catalyst for identifying, training and connecting the leaders of our region and is a pathway for effective leadership for generations to come. There is a deliberate focus on fostering a sense of ownership for the region – that we have interdependent roles and we depend on each other for the progress and success of Northwest Missouri. Two members of the 2021 class share their experience thus far:
“Thrilled to have this opportunity to grow and learn with such an amazing group of talented and smart individuals. Leadership Northwest Missouri is by far exceeding my expectations on what I thought it could do for me personally and professionally!” Dr. Bob Machovsky, Nodaway County
“I feel honored to be part of a group of individuals who not only want to better themselves but also our communities. I am excited to see where this year takes us.” Tammy Sparks, Gentry County
Sessions incorporate a blend of classroom presentations and experiential exercises; in-depth examinations of such regional issues as education, recreation, youth development, healthcare, quality of life, entrepreneurship, agriculture, regional awareness/vitality, infrastructure, workforce development and team empowerment round out each session.
“Regional-focused leadership development programs are the foundation for building the capacity of individuals, communities and regions to solve their own problems,” said Dr. Tim Crowley, a local leadership expert who is one of the program’s facilitators. “Participants develop leadership best practices, establish strong networks, increase ability to solve complex problems and deepen their understanding of regional needs and assets.”
Please contact Deb Powers for information on Leadership Northwest Missouri.
Website: http://www.leadershipnorthwestmissouri.org
