Inspiring Others to Lead

7/10/2024

Photo credit- Lauren Sherman Photography.

Inaugural Newaygo County Leadership Empowerment and Advancement Program completes first cohort

Photos by: Lauren Sherman Photography

Newaygo County, MI [July 9, 2024] – The Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, is proud to announce the culmination of the Leadership Empowerment & Advancement Program (L.E.A.P.) 2024 cohort. This milestone marks a significant step in empowering local leaders and fostering community growth through dedicated education and leadership training, as prioritized in NCEDP’s strategic plan.

The inaugural cohort, launched earlier this year, brought together a diverse group of emerging leaders from seven sectors, including manufacturing, government, healthcare, and non-profit, reflecting the rich economy of Newaygo County. Participants engaged in a robust curriculum covering a multitude of essential skills in leadership, civility, conflict resolution, communication, and more.

The six-month program consisted of engaging workshops and networking opportunities led by local and regional experts. Not only did this program prioritize enhancing each individual’s leadership skills, it also provided an opportunity to enhance their networks, enabling participants to build strong professional relationships and partnerships that will benefit the community for years to come.

One L.E.A.P. participant shared, “This was something that filled my cup for my professional desire to continue to grow. I thoroughly enjoyed networking with other like-minded people within Newaygo County. These connections are what will help me in my future career.”

"We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our inaugural cohort," said Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director. "This group of dedicated individuals has demonstrated exceptional commitment to their personal growth and the betterment of our community. We are confident that they will continue to drive positive change, inspiring others to lead."

The next Newaygo County L.E.A.P. cohort will launch in January 2025 and will begin accepting applications this fall. For more information, please contact Julie Burrell at [email protected].