The Center for Leadership Program Fellows joined our team in Topeka last week for two action packed days of learning, connection, and service centered around advocacy and relationship building.
The session began with exploration of the advocacy process, and the role leaders play in engaging with systems that shape their communities. Fellows then extended this learning through a visit to the Capitol, where they strengthened relationships by meeting with their representatives and senators and seeing advocacy in action. Since their visit to the Capitol was on Kansas Day, the group joined fellow Kansans in a pretty spectacular rendition of Home on the Range!
Throughout the retreat, Fellows engaged in thoughtful discussions around the elements of trust and why trust-building is a critical leadership practice. The group also explored social accountability, and the responsibility leaders have to their organizations, their communities, and the people they serve.
A key experiential component of the retreat included a site visit to Midland PACE and Meals on Wheels. Fellows learned how these organizations serve their clients, communicate their mission, and engage volunteers. The group also had the opportunity to give back by packing snacks for Meals on Wheels and assisting with activities for PACE participants. A big thank you to Midland for reinforcing the connection between leadership, service, and storytelling. We didn’t want to leave!
The learning retreat included a Leaders in Residence lunch, offering valuable insight and perspective from respected local leaders, including Bill Cochran of USD 501, Crystal Stevens from Washburn University School of Nursing, and Marlou Wegener of Blue Cross Blue Shield. These conversations were a powerful part of the session helping the Fellows think about confidence, trust, and accountability.
The two-day experience concluded with a creative, hands-on project designed to help Fellows reflect on their learning and intentionally carry it back into their organizations.
This January gathering exemplified the Fellow’s commitment to developing themselves as leaders by learning together, building meaningful relationships, and growing through shared experiences.
