Last month as we celebrated the latest class to graduate from the Mesa County Leadership Program, I was struck with the impact of cultivating leadership during the past 30 years of this program. As a graduate myself, I appreciate the impact this class had on my leadership development, but I realized in a new way the impact each of the 300+ alumni has had on our community.
Through various levels of engagement and initiative, we’ve watched alumni deploy to every corner of Mesa County (and beyond) making a significant contribution to the betterment of this place we call home.
Not every pathway has been the same.
Some have risen to become effective leaders in their organizations, making an impact by providing clear strategic direction, leveraging valuable resources, and ensuring the inspiration of staff, customers, and volunteers around them. These leaders play a vital role in our economic vitality, enabling local industries that are innovative, relevant, and entrepreneurial.
We have also seen a commitment to civic leadership from these individuals. By taking an interest in local issues, they help drive the development of the community. From nonprofit support to holding public office, they understand that playing a role in the enhancement of our quality of life through servant leadership creates consequential positive change with lasting impact.
Others have taken on the important task of social and cultural leadership. They celebrate the social fabric that makes our Valley vibrant, encouraging those around them to promote inclusivity, respect for traditions, and help contribute a sense of belonging that every strong community must have. That collective well-being allows us to shape a future that improves the daily lives of those who live, work, and play here.
Most importantly for these alumni, we have leaders who recognize that true stewardship of our economic future and the community’s overall health requires some of each of these leadership roles. I’ve watched over the years as inspiration takes hold, that they become strong organizational leaders that value civic engagement and inspire inclusion in our community.
When I think of the many contributions made by those who have emerged from the program, I quickly realize that without it, our home would look and feel substantially different. I believe many of the things we love most about our Valley would not exist. This deepens my gratitude that our path continues to be paved by those who understand that a leader’s work is never done, and we must always be preparing for the next generation of leaders to entrust with our community.
Here’s to 30 years of growing leadership! We are in great hands with this latest class and all those who have come before.